_Z
LESSONS FROM THE LIVES OF
OLD TESTAMENT
PROPHETS
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON
Senior Division, No. 294, Fourth Quarter, 1968
THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY
"With joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation." Isa. 12:3.
"Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy word was unto me
the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by Thy name, 0 Lord
God of hosts." Jer. 15 :16.
"As a means of intellectual training, the opportunities of the Sabbath are
invaluable. Let the Sabbath School lesson be learned, not by a hasty glance at
the lesson scripture on Sabbath morning, but by careful study for the next
week on Sabbath afternoon, with daily review or illustration during the week.
Thus the lesson will become fixed in the memory, a treasure never to be
wholly
lost."—Education,
pages 251, 252.
"Every day some portion of time should be appropriated to the study of
the lessons, not merely in learning to mechanically repeat the words, while
the mind does not comprehend the meaning; but to go to the very foundation,
and become familiar with what is brought out in the
lesson."—Counsels on
Sabbath School Work,
page 53.
My Daily Lesson Study Pledge
As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I pledge
myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sabbath School
lesson each day of the week.
Nana
Lesson Titles for the Quarter
1.
Abraham, Friend of God—Part I
2.
Abraham, Friend of God—Part II
3.
Abraham, Friend of God—Part III
4.
Moses, the Peerless Leader—Part I
5.
Moses, the Peerless Leader—Part II
6.
Samuel, the Prophet and Judge
7.
Elijah, Man of Like Passions—Part I
8.
Elijah, Man of Like Passions—Part II
9.
Elisha, the Prophet With the Double Portion—Part I
10.
Elisha, the Prophet With the Double Portion—Part II
11.
The Prophet Jonah
12.
Daniel, the Prophet—Part I
13.
Daniel, the Prophet—Part II
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 294, October-December, 1968. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents a
year (four issues) ; no additional charge to countries requiring extra postage. Published in the U.S.A.
by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), 1350 Villa Street, Mountain View,
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Copyright, 1968, by Pacific Press Publishing Association
COVER PICTURE BY CHARLES ZINGARO; © P.P. P.A.
LITHO IN U.S.A.
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly
LESSONS FROM THE LIVES OF OLD TESTAMENT PROPHETS
GENERAL INTRODUCTION
The lessons for this quarter are drawn
from the
lives
of prophets of the Old Testa-
ment, emphasis being placed on the char-
acter of the men rather than upon their
writings.
It is not assumed that these lessons by
any means exhaust the rich potentialities in
the biographies of these men. They are in-
tended, rather, to serve as a stimulus for
deeper and more intensive investigation of
the lives of men whose personal histories
the Lord saw fit to include in His Word.
Lesson 1, for October 5, 1968
Abraham, Friend of God—Part I
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Genesis 12; 13:4-9; 14:13; 18:19; 20:1-13; 26:5.
MEMORY VERSE: "By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place
which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out,
not knowing whither he went." Heb. 11:8.
STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 125-135; "S.D.A. Bible Commen-
tary," Vol. 1.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
Sunday: Questions 1-4.
Thursday: Read from study helps.
Monday: Questions 5-7.
Friday: Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Tuesday: Questions 8-11.
Learned," review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. Abraham's Commission
1.
His calling. Gen. 20:7.
2.
His call. Gen. 11:31; 12:1, 2 ;
Joshua 24:2, 3.
3.
His response to the call. Gen. 12:4
(first part) ; Heb. 11:8.
4.
His first stopping place. Gen. 12:4
(last part).
II. Abraham's Religion
5.
His evangelistic fervor. Gen. 12:5
(middle part).
6.
His devotional life. Gen. 12:7, 8;
13:4, 18.
7.
His loyalty to God. Gen. 18:19;
26:5.
III. Abraham in Egypt
8. His choice of a country to escape
famine. Gen. 12:10.
[3
]
9.
His failure in faith. Gen. 12:11-16.
10.
His gain even in failure.
Gen. 12:17-20.
IV. Abraham's Return to Canaan
11.
The repetition of his failure.
Gen. 20:1-5, 13.
12.
His nobility in dealing with Lot.
Gen. 13:7-9.
13.
His practice emphasized by a New
Testament admonition. Rom. 12:10;
Phil 2:4.
14.
His relations with his neighbors.
Gen. 14:13 (last part).
THE LESSON
Abraham's Commission
1.
What was the calling of Abra-
ham? Gen. 20:7.
2.
Whence was Abraham called,
and why? What did God promise
him? Gen. 11:31; 12:1, 2; Joshua 24:
2, 3.
NOTE.—"He chose Abraham, of the line
of Shem, and made him the keeper of His
law for future generations. Abraham had
grown up in the midst of superstition
and heathenism. Even his father's house-
hold, by whom the knowledge of God had
been preserved, were yielding to the seduc-
tive influences surrounding them, and they
`served other gods' than Jehovah. But the
true faith was not to become extinct"—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 125.
3.
How did Abraham respond to
the call? Gen. 12:4 (first part); Heb.
11:8.
NOTE.—"It was no light test that was
thus brought upon Abraham, no small sac-
rifice that was required of him. . . . But he
did not hesitate to obey the call. . . . God
had spoken, and His servant must obey;
the happiest place on earth for him was the
place where God would have him to be.
"Many are still tested as was Abraham.
. . . They may be required to abandon a
career that promises wealth and honor, to
leave congenial and profitable associations,
and separate from kindred, to enter upon
what appears to be only a path of self-
denial, hardship, and
sacrifice."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
pages 126, 127.
4.
In what city did Abraham re-
main for some time? Gen. 12:4 (last
part). Compare Gen. 11:31, 32.
Abraham's Religion
5.
What indicates that the religion
of this man and his family was dy-
namic and attractive? Gen. 12:5 (mid-
dle part).
NOTE.—"During their stay in Haran, both
Abraham and Sarah had led others to the
worship and service of the true God. These
attached themselves to the patriarch's
household, and accompanied him to the
Land of
Promise."—Patriarchs and Proph-
ets,
page 127.
6.
What type of devotional life did
Abraham foster in his home? Gen.
12:7, 8; 13:4, 18.
NOTE.—"Abraham, 'the friend of God,'
set us a worthy example. His was a life of
prayer. Wherever he pitched his tent, close
beside it was set up his altar, calling all
within his encampment to the morning and
evening sacrifice. When his tent was re-
moved, the altar remained. In following
years, there were those among the roving
Canaanites who received instruction from
Abraham; and whenever one of these came
to that altar, he knew who had been there
t
41
before him; and when he had pitched his
tent, he repaired the altar, and there wor-
shiped the living
God."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 128.
7.
How did Abraham's obedience
to God affect his family and com-
munity life? Gen. 18:19; 26:5.
NOTE.—"How few there are in our day
who follow this example! On the part of
too many parents there is a blind and selfish
sentimentalism, miscalled love, which is
manifested in leaving children, with their
unformed judgment and undisciplined pas-
sions, to the control of their own will. This
is the veriest cruelty to the youth and a
great wrong to the world. Parental indul-
gence causes disorder in families and in
society. It confirms in the young the desire
to follow inclination, instead of submitting
to the divine requirements. Thus they grow
up with a heart averse to doing God's will,
and they transmit their irreligious, insub-
ordinate spirit to their children and chil-
dren's children. Like Abraham, parents
should command their households after
them. Let obedience to parental authority
be taught and enforced as the first step in
obedience to the authority of
God."—Patri-
archs and Prophets,
pages 142, 143.
Abraham in Egypt
8.
When a famine arose in Canaan,
where did Abraham go? Gen. 12:10.
NOTE.—"To escape the famine he went
down into Egypt. He did not forsake Ca-
naan, or in his extremity turn back to the
Chaldean land from which he came, where
there was no scarcity of bread; but he
sought a temporary refuge as near as pos-
sible to the Land of Promise, intending
shortly to return where God had placed
him."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 129.
9.
What incident reveals Abraham's
lack of faith? Gen. 12:11-16.
NOTE.—"During his stay in Egypt, Abra-
ham gave evidence that he was not free
from human weakness and imperfection. In
concealing the fact that Sarah was his wife,
he betrayed a distrust of the divine care, a
lack of that lofty faith and courage so often
and nobly exemplified in his life. Sarah was
fair to look upon, and he doubted not that
the dusky Egyptians would covet the beau-
tiful stranger, and that in order to secure
her, they would not scruple to slay her
husband. He reasoned that he was not
guilty of falsehood in representing Sarah as
his sister, for she was the daughter of his
father, though not of his mother. But this
concealment of the real relation between
them was deception. No deviation from
strict integrity can meet God's approval."--
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 130.
10.
How did God overrule in this
affair? Gen. 12:17-20.
NOTE.—"The warning that had been
given to Pharaoh proved a protection to
Abraham in his after-intercourse with hea-
then peoples; for the matter could not be
kept secret, and it was seen that the God
whom Abraham worshiped would protect
His servant, and that any injury done him
would be avenged. It is a dangerous thing
to wrong one of the children of the King
of
heaven."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page
131.
Abraham's Return to Canaan
11.
On what other occasion did
Abraham make the same mistake?
Gen. 20:1-5, 13.
NOTE.—"You would be brought over the
ground again and tested on the very points
where you had failed before. Thus the Lord
did for the children of Israel; thus He has
done with His people in all ages. He will
prove them where they have formerly
failed; He will try them, and if they fail
under the trial the second time, He will
bring them around to the same test again."
—Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 623.
[ 5 ]
12.
In dealing with Lot, how did
Abraham reveal the nobility and un-
selfishness of his character? Gen. 13:
7-9.
NOTE.—"Here the noble, unselfish spirit
of Abraham was displayed. How many un-
der similar circumstances would, at all
hazards, cling to their individual rights
and preferences! How many households
have thus been rent asunder! How many
churches have been divided, making the
cause of truth a byword and a reproach
among the wicked! . . . The children of
God the world over are one family, and
the same spirit of love and conciliation
should govern them. 'Be kindly affectioned
one to another with brotherly love; in
honor preferring one another' (Romans 12:
10), is the teaching of our Saviour. The
cultivation of a uniform courtesy, a will-
ingness to do to others as we would wish
them to do to us, would annihilate half the
ills of life. The spirit of self-aggrandizement
is the spirit of Satan; but the heart in
which the love of Christ is cherished, will
possess that charity which seeketh not her
own."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 132,
133.
13.
In what terms is this character-
istic set forth in the New Testament?
Rom. 12:10; Phil. 2:4.
NoTE.—The Revised Standard Version
gives Phil. 2:4 thus: "Let each of you look
not only to his own interests, but also to
the interests of others."
14.
How did Abraham relate him-
self to his neighbors? Gen. 14:13 (last
part).
NOTE.—"Abraham was honored by the
surrounding nations as a mighty prince and
a wise and able chief. He did not shut
away his influence from his neighbors. . . .
6
"His religion was not held as a precious
treasure to be jealously guarded and en-
joyed solely by the possessor. True religion
cannot be thus held, for such a spirit is
contrary to the principles of the gospel.
While Christ is dwelling in the heart it is
impossible to conceal the light of His pres-
ence, or for that light to grow dim."—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 133, 134.
Lessons to Be Learned:
1.
Faithfulness in one place may lead to
a call to wider service. Question 2.
2.
Loyal and true servants of God heed
His calls. Question 3.
3.
A Christian occupies himself in soul
winning wherever he is. Questions 4, 5.
4.
Steadfast loyalty to God is the hall-
mark of the Christian. Questions 6, 7.
5.
Unexpected difficulties may cause a
servant of God to detour for a while, but
he does not turn back. Question 8.
6.
Even heroes of the church have had
their weaknesses and their failings. Ques-
tions 9, 11.
7.
Christians should always display a
noble unselfishness. Questions 12, 13.
8.
A Christian seeks to live at peace with
his neighbors. Question 14.
"Remember that you will
never reach a higher stan-
dard than you yourself set.
Then set your mark high,
and step by step, even though
it be by painful effort, by
self-denial and sacrifice, as-
cend the whole length of the
ladder of progress. Let noth-
ing hinder
you."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
pages 331,
332.
Lesson 2, for October 12, 1968
Abraham, Friend of God-Part II
LESSON SCRIPTURES:
Gen.
14:18-24; 15:1-18; 18:1-32.
MEMORY VERSE:
"And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed
God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the
friend of God." James 2:23.
STUDY HELPS:
"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 136-143, 156-170; "S.D.A. Bible
Commentary," Vol. 1.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Sunday: Questions 1-5.
Monday: Questions 6-9.
Tuesday: Questions 10-14.
Wesdnesday: Begin reading from
Check Here
study helps.
Thursday: Read further from
study helps.
Friday:
Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Learned," review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. Abraham and Stewardship
1.
The payment of tithe to Melchize-
dek. Gen. 14:18-20.
2.
Abraham's noble and unselfish
spirit. Gen. 14:21-24.
II. Abraham's Reaction in Victory
3.
The Lord's dealing with Abraham's
troubled spirit. Gen. 15:1.
4.
The great question in Abraham's
mind. Gen. 15:2, 3.
5.
The Lord's answer to this question.
Gen. 15:4, 5.
III. The Imputation of Righteousness
6. Abraham's faith the basis of
imputed righteousness. Gen. 15:6.
7.
Abraham's request for a visible
token. Gen. 15:8.
8.
The Lord's gracious covenant
with Abraham. Gen. 15:17, 18.
9.
The promise repeated. Gen. 17:1-5,
15-17.
IV. Characteristics Revealed
10.
His hospitality to strangers.
Gen. 18:1-5.
11.
Further confirmation; Sarah's
reaction. Gen. 18:10, 12-15.
12.
The Lord's gracious assurance in
spite of human weakness. Gen.
18:14.
13.
The purpose of the mission ex-
plained. Gen. 18:17-21.
14.
Abraham's plea for Sodom.
Gen. 18:24, 25, 28-32.
THE LESSON
Abraham and Stewardship
1. Describe the meeting of Abraham
and Melchizedek. Gen. 14:18-20.
NOTE.-This experience reveals that tith-
ing as a sign of stewardship did not origi-
nate with the Jewish nation but was under-
stood by the earliest patriarchs.
2. In what incident is Abraham's
noble, unselfish spirit again in evi-
dence? Gen. 14:21-24.
NOTE.
-"By
the usage of war, the spoils
belonged to the conquerors; but Abraham
had undertaken this expedition with no
purpose of gain, and he refused to take
advantage of the unfortunate, only stipu-
[ 7
lating that his confederates should receive
the portion to which they were entitled.
"Few, if subjected to such a test, would
have shown themselves as noble as did
Abraham. Few would have resisted the
temptation to secure so rich a booty. His
example is a rebuke to self-seeking, merce-
nary spirits. Abraham regarded the claims
of justice and
humanity."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
pages 135, 136.
Abraham's Reaction in Victory
3.
In the aftermath of victory who
spoke to Abraham, and in what
words? Gen. 15:1.
NOTE.—"Abraham gladly returned to his
tents and his flocks, but his mind was dis-
turbed by harassing thoughts. He had been
a man of peace, so far as possible shunning
enmity and strife; and with horror he re-
called the scene of carnage he had witnessed.
But the nations whose forces he had de-
feated would doubtless renew the invasion
of Canaan, and make him the special object
of their vengeance. Becoming thus involved
in national quarrels, the peaceful quiet of
his life would be broken. Furthermore, he
had not entered upon the possession of
Canaan, nor could he now hope for an heir,
to whom the promise might be fulfilled."—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 136.
4.
What was the great question in
the patriarch's mind? Gen. 15:2, 3.
5.
How did the Lord answer him?
Gen. 15:4, 5.
The Imputation of Righteousness
6.
Why was righteousness
"counted" to him? Gen. 15:6. Com-
pare Romans 4:2-6.
7.
Although he had God's promise,
what did Abraham still desire? Gen.
15:8.
8.
How graciously was his desire
granted? Gen. 15:17, 18.
NOTE.—"The Lord condescended to enter
into a covenant with His servant, employ-
ing such forms as were customary among
men for the ratification of a solemn en-
gagement."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page
137.
9.
With what positive assurance
was God's promise to Abraham re-
peated? Gen. 17:1-5, 15-17.
NOTE.—"Abraham had accepted without
question the promise of a son, but he did
not wait for God to fulfill His word in
His own time and way. A delay was per-
mitted, to test his faith in the power of
God; but he failed to endure the trial."—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 145.
"When Abraham was nearly one hun-
dred years old, the promise of a son was
repeated to him, with the assurance that
the future heir should be the child of
Sarah. But Abraham did not yet under-
stand the promise. His mind at once turned
to Ishmael, clinging to the belief that
through him God's gracious purposes were
to be accomplished. In his affection for his
son he exclaimed, '0 that Ishmael might
live before Thee!' Again the promise was
given, in words that could not be mistaken:
`Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son in-
deed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac:
and I will establish My covenant with
him.'
"—Ibid.,
p. 146.
Characteristics Revealed
10.
What characteristics did Abra-
ham display toward three unknown
guests? Gen. 18:1-5. Compare Heb.
13:2.
NOTE.—"God conferred great honor upon
Abraham. Angels of heaven walked and
talked with him as friend with friend. . . .
His interview with the angels presents also
a beautiful example of hospitality. . . .
"Before reaching his tent, the strangers
halted, as if consulting as to their course.
Without waiting for them to solicit favors,
Abraham rose quickly, and as they were
[8
]
apparently turning in another direction, he
hastened after them, and with the utmost
courtesy urged them to honor him by
tarrying for refreshment. With his own
hands he brought water that they might
wash the dust of travel from their feet. He
himself selected their food, and while they
were at rest under the cooling shade, an
entertainment was made ready, and he
stood respectfully beside them while they
partook of his hospitality. This act of
courtesy God regarded of sufficient impor-
tance to record in His Word; and a thou-
sand years later it was referred to by an
inspired apostle: 'Be not forgetful to en-
tertain strangers: for thereby some have
entertained angels unawares.'
"—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 138.
11.
Before their departure what
further assurance did Abraham's visi-
tors give concerning the promised
heir, and with what reaction on the
part of Sarah? Gen. 18:10, 12-15.
12.
In spite of this manifestation of
human weakness, what positive as-
surance was repeated? Gen. 18:14.
NOTE.—"Where human wisdom and
strength fail, and where nature, enfeebled,
lacks ability to act, there God still has full
sway and brings things to pass according
to the counsels of His own divine will. In
fact, He often permits circumstances to
reach an impasse so that human impotence
may stand forth in striking contrast to His
omnipotence."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Gen. 18:14.
13.
Why had the Lord stopped at
Abraham's home before destroying
Sodom? Gen. 18:17-21. Compare
Amos 3:7.
NoTE.—"Abraham is called in the Scrip-
tures the friend of God (2 Chron. 20:7;
Isa. 41:8). Since he stood so high in the
divine favor and fellowship, God saw fit
to impart to him a more intimate knowl-
edge of His works and ways. Similarly, He
has entrusted messages to the prophets,
concerning whom He says that they stand
in His counsel, or 'secret' (Jer. 23:18-22;
Amos 3:7). It is particularly with refer-
ence to acts of judgment upon the earth
that the Lord speaks thus."—S.D.A.
Bible
Commentary,
on Gen. 18:17.
14.
What qualities of Abraham's
character were revealed in his plea
for the averting of the judgment de-
termined upon Sodom? Gen. 18:24,
25, 28-32.
NOTE.—"Love for perishing souls inspired
Abraham's prayer. While he loathed the
sins of that corrupt city, he desired that
the sinners might be saved. His deep in-
terest for Sodom shows the anxiety that
we should feel for the impenitent. We
should cherish hatred of sin, but pity and
love for the sinner. All around us are
souls going down to ruin as hopeless, as
terrible, as that which befell Sodom. Every
day the probation of some is closing.
Every hour some are passing beyond the
reach of mercy. And where are the voices
of warning and entreaty to bid the sinner
flee from this fearful doom? Where are
the hands stretched out to draw him back
from death? Where are those who with
humility and persevering faith are plead-
ing with God for
him?"—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 140.
In this experience Abraham was a true
representative of Christ, the Great Inter-
cessor.
Lessons to Be Learned:
1.
The servant of God misses no op-
portunity to reveal the privilege and bless-
ings of stewardship. Question 1.
2.
Even great victories may be followed
by moments of fearfulness. Questions 3-5.
3.
Faith is honored by the gift of im-
puted righteousness. Question 6.
4.
To meet human weakness God some-
times reinforces His promises by some
visible token. Questions 7, 8.
5.
Courtesy and hospitality are char-
acteristics of the child of God. Question 10.
6.
God's great promises to us are not
canceled because of momentary weaknesses.
Questions 11, 12.
7.
The Christian, knowing God's mercy,
expresses himself freely in intercessory
prayer. Question 14.
[
9
]
Lesson 3, for October 19, 1968
Abraham, Friend of God-Part
III
LESSON SCRIPTURES:
Gen.
21:1-12; 22:1-8, 13; 24:2-4,
67; Ex.
20:13;
Deut. 7:1-4;
Matt. 27:37-39; John 1:29, 36.
MEMORY VERSE:
"He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but
was strong in faith, giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that, what
He had promised, He was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed
to him for righteousness." Rom. 4:20-22.
STUDY HELPS:
"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 145-155; "S.D.A. Bible Commen-
tary," Vol. 1.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Wednesday: Questions 11-14.
Sunday: Questions 1-3.
Thursday: Read from study helps.
Monday: Questions 4-6.
Friday: Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Tuesday: Questions 7-10.
Learned," review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. Isaac and Ishmael
1.
The fulfillment of the promise in
the birth of Isaac. Gen. 21:1-7.
2.
Rivalry between the two sons of
Abraham. Gen. 21:8-12.
II. The Command to Offer Isaac
3.
The giving of the command.
Gen. 22:2.
4.
The apparent conflict between the
command and the law. Ex. 20:13.
5.
The conflict between the command
and the covenant. Gen. 15:4, 5.
III. Abraham's Greatest Hour
6. Isaac's question about the sacrifice.
Gen. 22:7.
7.
Abraham's tactful answer.
Gen. 22:8.
8.
The prophetic import of Abraham's
words. Gen. 22:13; John 1:29, 36;
3:16; Rom. 8:32.
9.
The reason for the command.
Gen. 22:1 (first part).
IV. The Marriage of Isaac
10.
Abraham's last arrangement to
carry out the covenant. Gen. 24:2-4.
11.
Isaac's wholehearted participation.
Gen. 24:67.
12.
The basis of Abraham's action.
Deut. 7:1-4.
13.
Paul's admonition regarding
marriage. 1 Cor. 7:39; 2 Cor. 6:14.
14.
Last-day conditions in marriage.
Matt. 24:37-39.
THE LESSON
Isaac and Ishmael
1. To what age had Abraham at-
tained before t.4a birth and naming of
the promised heir? Gen. 21:1-7.
NOTE.
-"The
birth of Isaac, bringing,
after a lifelong waiting, the fulfillment of
their dearest hopes, filled the tents of Abra-
ham and Sarah with
gladness."-Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 146.
[ 10 ]
2.
What crisis developed in the
household of Abraham in connection
with the weaning of Isaac? Gen. 21:
8-12.
NOTE.—"The instruction given to Abra-
ham touching the sacredness of the mar-
riage relation was to be a lesson for all
ages. It declares that the rights and happi-
ness of this relation are to be carefully
guarded, even at a great sacrifice. Sarah
was the only true wife of Abraham. Her
rights as a wife and mother no other person
was entitled to share. She reverenced her
husband, and in this she is presented in
the New Testament as a worthy example.
But she was unwilling that Abraham's af-
fections should be given to another, and
the Lord did not reprove her for requiring
the banishment of her
rival."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 147.
The Command to Offer Isaac
3.
When the promise of a son
seemed to be happily fulfilled, and
the covenant in operation, what heart-
breaking command came to Abra-
ham? Gen. 22:2.
forbidden."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page
148.
5.
Why was this charge to Abra-
ham in apparent conflict with the
terms of the covenant? Gen. 15:4, 5.
NOTE.—"Going outside his tent, Abraham
looked up to the calm brightness of the un-
clouded heavens, and recalled the promise
made nearly fifty years before, that his
seed should be innumerable as the stars.
If this promise was to be fulfilled through
Isaac, how could he he put to death?
Abraham was tempted to believe that he
might be under a
delusion."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 148.
Abraham's Greatest Hour
6.
On the way to the place of sacri-
fice, what pointed question was asked
by Isaac? Gen. 22:7.
7.
What tactful answer did Abra-
ham give? Gen. 22:8.
NOTE.—"Isaac was the light of his home,
the solace of his old age, above all else the
inherit& of the promised blessing. The
loss of such a son by accident or disease
would have been heartrending to the fond
father; it would have bowed down his
whitened head with grief; but he was com-
manded to shed the blood of that son with
his own hand. It seemed to him a fearful
impossibility."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 148.
4. Which of the commandments
did God's order appear to violate?
Ex. 20:13.
NOTE.—"Satan was at hand to suggest
that he must be deceived, for the divine
law commands, 'Thou shalt not kill,' and
God would not require what He had once
8. In what ways were these words
prophetic? Gen. 22:13; John 1:29, 36;
3:16; Rom. 8:32.
NOTE.—"The agony which he endured
during the dark days of that fearful trial
was permitted that he might, understand
from his own experience something of the
greatness of the sacrifice made by the in-
finite God for man's redemption. . . .
"The sacrifice required of Abraham was
not alone for his own good, nor solely
for the benefit of succeeding generations;
but it was also for the instruction of the
sinless intelligences of heaven and of other
worlds....
"It had been difficult even for the an-
gels to grasp the mystery of redemption—
to comprehend that the Commander of
heaven, the Son of God, must die for
guilty man. When the command was given
to Abraham to offer up his son, the interest
of all heavenly beings was enlisted. With
intense earnestness they watched each step
in the fulfillment of this command."—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 154, 155.
9.
Why was Abraham commanded
to offer Isaac? Gen. 22:1 (first part).
NOTE.—The American Revised Version
reads: "And it came to pass after these
things, that God did prove Abraham."
The Revised Standard Version reads: "Af-
ter these things God tested Abraham."
"Because Abraham had shown a lack of
faith in God's promises, Satan had accused
him before the angels and before God of
having failed to comply with the con-
ditions of the covenant, and as unworthy
of its blessings. God desired to prove the
loyalty of His servant before all heaven, to
demonstrate that nothing less than perfect
obedience can be accepted, and to open
more fully before them the plan of
salva-
tion."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 154,
155.
The Marriage of Isaac
10.
In his old age what arrange-
ment did Abraham make to imple-
ment the promise of the covenant?
Gen. 24:2-4.
Nora.—"Abraham had become an old
man, and expected soon to die; yet one act
remained for him to do in securing the
fulfillment of the promise to his posterity.
Isaac was the one divinely appointed to
succeed him as the keeper of the law of
God and the father of the chosen people,
but he was yet unmarried. The inhabitants
of Canaan were given to idolatry, and God
had forbidden intermarriage between His
people and them, knowing that such mar-
riages would lead to apostasy."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 171.
11.
Was Isaac pleased with the re-
sults of his father's plan? Gen 24:67.
NOTE.—"In ancient times, marriage en-
gagements were generally made by the par-
ents, and this was the custom among those
who worshiped God. None were required
to marry those whom they could not love;
but in the bestowal of their affections the
youth were guided by the judgment of
their experienced, God-fearing parents. It
was regarded as a dishonor to parents, and
even a crime, to pursue a course contrary
to this.
"Isaac, trusting to his father's wisdom
and affection, was satisfied to commit the
matter to him, believing also that God
Himself would direct in the choice made."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 171.
12.
In what command to Israel is
the basis of Abraham's conduct clearly
stated? Deut. 7:1-4.
13.
How is this repeated in the New
Testament period? 1 Cor.
7:39; 2 Cor.
6:14.
NOTE.—In a warning written to a woman
contemplating marriage with an unbeliever,
Ellen G. White made the following state-
ment and the one after question 14:
"My sister, dare you disregard these
plain and positive directions? As a child
of God, a subject of Christ's kingdom, the
purchase of His blood, how can you con-
nect yourself with one who does not
acknowledge His claims, who is not con-
trolled by His Spirit? The commands I
have quoted are not the word of man,
but of God. Though the companion of your
choice were
in all other respects worthy
(which he is not), yet he has not accepted
the truth for this time; he is an unbeliever,
and you are forbidden of heaven to unite
yourself with him. You cannot, without
peril to your soul, disregard this divine
injunction."—Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 364.
(Italic supplied.)
14.
What social condition will exist
at the time of the end? Matt
24:37
-
39.
NoTE.—"The people of this generation
are marrying and giving in marriage with
the same reckless disregard of God's re-
quirements as was manifested in the days
[ 12 ]
of Noah. There is in the Christian world
an astonishing, alarming indifference to the
teaching of God's Word in regard to the
marriage of Christians with unbelievers.
Many who profess to love and fear God
choose to follow the bent of their own
minds rather than take counsel of Infinite
Wisdom."-Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 365.
Lessons to Be Learned:
1.
Failure in faith leads to periods of pain
and sorrow. Question 2.
2.
God's tests may bring periods of an-
guish and distress. Question 3.
3.
Satan often makes use of Scripture to
advance or aggravate confusing and painful
issues. Question 4.
4.
Contradictions in God's dealings with
us are only apparent and not real. Ques-
tion 5.
5.
Great tests reveal the dimensions of a
man's faith and character. Questions 6, 7.
6.
God finds it necessary occasionally to
test His children. Question 9.
7.
The Christian, to the degree that it is
his responsibility, lays plans to carry out
the terms of God's covenant with him.
Question 10.
8.
Christian parents can be trusted and
respected by their children in matters of
courtship, engagement, and marriage. Ques-
tions 10, 11.
9.
Marriage with unbelievers is forbidden
because it is unwise, unsafe, and may ulti-
mately cause the loss of one's soul. Ques-
tions 12-14.
Lesson 4, for October 26, 1968
Moses, the Peerless Leader-Part I
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Ex. 2:8-21; 3:1-10
;
4:10-13, 18; 14:10-30; 17:8-13; 18:13-24;
32:7-13.
MEMORY VERSE: "By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be
called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; choosing rather to suffer affliction with
the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season." Heb.
11:24, 25.
STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 241-256; 281-302; "S.D.A. Bible
Commentary," Vol. 1.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Sunday: Questions 1-4.
Monday: Questions 5-7.
Tuesday: Questions 8-10.
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 11-14.
Thursday: Read from study helps.
Friday: Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Learned," review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. God's Purpose for Moses
1.
The influence of his mother.
Ex. 2:8-10.
2.
God's plan for him. Acts 7:25.
3.
A wrong means to an end.
Ex. 2:11-14.
4.
Moses in Midian. Ex. 2:15-17, 21;
3:1.
II. The Call to Lead Israel
5.
The Lord in the burning bush.
Ex. 3:2-5.
6.
The call to leadership and the
response. Ex. 3:10; 4:10, 13.
7.
The acceptance by Moses. Ex. 4:18.
[ 13 ]
III. Wilderness Triumphs
8.
Fear at the Red Sea. Ex. 14:10-14.
9.
The Egyptians defeated.
Ex. 14:29, 30.
10.
The fight with Amalek.
Ex. 17:8-13.
IV. Moses and Jethro
11. Jethro's observation and advice.
Ex. 18:13-16.
12. Moses' attitude toward the counsel.
Ex. 18:17-24.
V. Apostasy at Sinai
13.
The Lord's revelation of Israel's
apostasy. Ex. 32:7, 8.
14.
Moses' rejection of a tempting
offer. Ex. 32:9-13.
THE LESSON
God's Purpose for Moses
1.
In
spite of Moses' becoming the
adopted son of the princess of Egypt,
who had the most to do with his early
life? Ex. 2:8-10.
NOTE.—"How far-reaching in its results
was the influence of that one Hebrew
woman, and she an exile and a slave ! The
whole future life of Moses, the great mis-
sion which he fulfilled as the leader of
Israel, testifies to the importance of the
work of the Christian mother. There is no
other work that can equal this. To a very
great extent the mother holds in her own
hands the destiny of her children."—Patri-
archs
and Prophets,
page 244.
2.
What plan did God have for
Moses? Was it understood? Acts 7:25.
NOTE.—"The elders of Israel were taught
by angels that the time for their deliverance
was near, and that Moses was the man
whom God would employ to accomplish
this work. Angels instructed Moses also
that Jehovah had chosen him to break the
bondage of His
people."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 245.
3.
In what incident do we see
Moses attempting to accomplish a
good end by wrong means? Ex. 2:
11-14.
NOTE.—"In slaying the Egyptian, Moses
had fallen into the same error so often
committed by his fathers, of taking into
their own hands the work that God had
promised to do. It was not God's will to
deliver His people by warfare, as Moses
thought, but by His own mighty power,
that the glory might be ascribed to Him
alone. Yet even this rash act was over-
ruled by God to accomplish His purposes."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 247.
4.
To what place did Moses flee,
and what experiences did he have in
the land of his exile? Ex. 2:15-17, 21;
3:1.
NOTE.—"Man would have dispensed with
that long period of toil and obscurity,
deeming it a great loss of time. But Infinite
Wisdom called him who was to become
the leader of his people to spend forty
years in the humble work of a shepherd.
The habits of care-taking, of self-forget-
fulness and tender solicitude for his flock,
thus developed, would prepare him to
become the compassionate, long-suffering
shepherd of Israel. No advantage that
human training or culture could bestow,
could be a substitute for this experience."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 247, 248.
The Call to Lead Israel
5.
Who met with Moses at the burn-
ing bush? What command was given,
and why? Ex. 3:2-5.
NOTE.—"Humility and reverence should
characterize the deportment of all who
come into the presence of God. In the name
of Jesus we may come before Him with
[ 14 ]
confidence, but we must not approach
Him with the boldness of presumption, as
though He were on a level with ourselves."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 252.
6.
At this time what call did Moses
receive, and what was his response?
Ex. 3:10; 4:10, 13.
NOTE.—"But Moses still entreated that
a more competent person be selected. These
excuses at first proceeded from humility and
diffidence; but after the Lord had promised
to remove all difficulties, and to give him
final success, then any further shrinking
back and complaining of his unfitness
showed distrust of God. It implied a fear
that God was unable to qualify him for
the great work to which He had called
him, or that He had made a mistake in
the selection of the
man."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 254.
7.
When the Lord overcame all his
objections, what decision did Moses
make? Ex. 4:18.
NOTE.—"But having once accepted the
work, he entered upon it with his whole
heart, putting all his trust in the Lord. . . .
God blessed his ready obedience, and he
became eloquent, hopeful, self-possessed,
and well fitted for the greatest work ever
given to man. This is an example of what
God does to strengthen the character of
those who trust Him fully and give them-
selves unreservedly to His commands."—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 255.
Wilderness Triumphs
8.
In spite of the miraculous de-
liverance from Egypt, how did the
Israelites act when faced with danger
at the Red Sea, and how did Moses
answer their complaint? Ex. 14:10-14.
NoTE.—"True, there was no possibility of
deliverance unless God Himself should in-
terpose for their release; but having been
brought into this position in obedience to
the divine direction, Moses felt no fear of
the consequences."—Patriarchs
and Proph-
ets,
page 284.
9.
What astounding miracle saved
them from an apparently fatal trap?
Ex. 14:29, 30.
NOTE.—"The great lesson here taught is
for all time. Often the Christian life is beset
by dangers, and duty seems hard to per-
form. The imagination pictures impending
ruin before and bondage or death behind.
Yet the voice of God speaks clearly, 'Go
forward.' We should obey this command,
even though our eyes cannot penetrate the
darkness, and we feel the cold waves about
our feet. The obstacles that hinder our
progress will never disappear before a
halting, doubting spirit. Those who defer
obedience till every shadow of uncertainty
disappears and there remains no risk of
failure or defeat, will never obey at all."—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 290.
10.
Who fought with Israel in
Rephidim, and with what results?
Ex. 17:8-13.
NoTE.—"As Aaron and Hur supported
the hands of Moses, they showed the peo-
ple their duty to sustain him in his arduous
work while he should receive the word from
God to speak to them. And the act of
Moses also was significant, showing that
God held their destiny in His hands."—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 299.
Moses and Jethro
11.
After bringing Moses' family to
him and watching Moses in his work,
what question did his father-in-law
raise? Ex. 18:13-16.
12.
How did Jethro advise Moses,
and how was his counsel regarded by
his son-in-law? Ex. 18:17-24.
[16]
NoTE.-"The Lord had greatly honored
Moses, and had wrought wonders by his
hand; but the fact that he had been chosen
to instruct others did not lead him to con-
clude that he himself needed no instruc-
tion."-Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 301.
Apostasy at Sinai
13.
While Moses was on the mount,
what did the Lord tell him about
Israel? Ex. 32:7, 8.
14.
What proposal did the Lord
make to Moses, and how was it re-
ceived by him? Ex. 32:9-13.
NOTE.-"His
interest in Israel sprang
from no selfish motive. The prosperity of
God's chosen people was dearer to him
than personal honor, dearer than the privi-
lege of becoming the father of a mighty
nation."-Patriarchs and Prophets,
page
319.
Lessons to Be Learned:
1.
Mothers exert a tremendous influence
over their children in their formative years.
Question 1.
2.
Good ends are not to be accomplished
by wrong means. Question 3.
3.
Men can be prepared for great re-
sponsibilities in humble occupations and
relative obscurity. Question 4.
4.
The people of God should be models
of reverence. Question 5.
5.
Singleminded and unshakable devotion
to a God-given task is a prime requisite in
those who work for God. Question 7.
6.
The Christian trusts most when he
can see ahead the least. Questions 8, 9.
7.
In the work of God divine power
unites with human endeavor. Question 10.
8.
The Christian accepts good counsel
from any source. Question 12.
9.
The true pastor is one with his people
and puts their interest first. Question 14.
If you are too busy to study
your lesson daily you are too
busy.
-Adapted
Lesson 5, for November 2, 1968
Moses, the Peerless Leader-Part II
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Ex. 32:30-32; 33:12-23; 34:1-9; Num. 11:4-29; 12:1-15; 20:
1-24; Deut. 1:37; 3:23-28; 4:21; Heb. 11:24-26; Matt. 17:3; Jude 9.
MEMORY VERSE: "Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the trea-
sures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward." Heb.
11:26.
STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 320-330; 374-386; 411-421;
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary," Vol. 1.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Sunday: Questions 1-4.
Monday: Questions 5-7.
Tuesday: Questions 8-11.
[ 16
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
Thursday: Read from study helps.
Friday: Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Learned," review entire lesson.
]
Lesson Outline:
I.
The Greatness of Moses
1.
His amazing selflessness.
Ex. 32:30-32.
2.
His holy boldness. Ex. 33:12-23 ;
34:1-9.
II. Trisuble Among the People
3.
Moses appeals to God concerning
people's complaints. Num. 11:4,
10, 13-15.
4.
Assistance provided for Moses.
Num. 11:16, 17, 24, 25.
5.
Moses' lack of jealousy. Num.
11:27-29.
III. Trouble in Moses' Family
6. The attack from within the family
circle. Num. 12:1-3.
7. The Lord's defense of Moses.
Num. 12:4-15.
IV. Failure at Kadesh
8. The conduct of the people at
Kadesh. Num. 20:1-5.
9. The Lord's answer to the prayers
of Moses and Aaron. Num. 20:6-8.
10. The failure of Moses. Num. 20:10,
11, 24.
11. The penalty for failure. Num. 20:12.
12. The frankness of Moses. Deut.
1:37; 3:23-28; 4:21.
V. The Promised Land
13. The guiding principle of Moses'
life. Heb. 11:24-26.
14. His "entry" into the Promised
Land. Matt. 17:3 ; Jude 9.
THE LESSON
The Greatness of Moses
1.
What words of Moses again re-
veal his amazing selflessness and utter
devotion to his people? Ex. 32:30-32.
2.
In the period immediately fol-
lowing the apostasy, when the peo-
ple were still in disgrace, what inti-
mate conversation took place between
Moses and God? Ex. 33:12-23; 34:1-9.
NOTE.
-"This
experience-above all else
the promise that the divine presence would
attend him-was to Moses an assurance
of success in the work before him ; and he
counted it of infinitely greater worth than
all the learning of Egypt or all his at-
tainments as a statesman or a military
leader. No earthly power or skill or learn-
ing can supply the place of God's abiding
presence."-Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page
328.
Trouble Among the People
3.
During the wilderness wander-
ings how did Moses handle the corn-
plaint that arose in connection with
the people's food? Num. 11:4, 10,
13-15.
NOTE.
-"God
might as easily have pro-
vided them with flesh as with manna, but
a restriction was placed upon them for
their good. . . .
"God brought the Israelites from Egypt,
that He might establish them in the land
of Canaan, a pure, holy, and happy people.
In the accomplishment of this object He
subjected them to a course of discipline,
both for their own good and for the good
of their posterity. Had they been willing
to deny appetite, in obedience to His wise
restrictions, feebleness and disease would
have been unknown among them. Their
descendants would have possessed both
physical and mental strength. They would
have had clear perceptions of truth and
duty, keen discrimination, and sound judg-
ment. But their unwillingness to submit
to the restrictions and requirements of
God, prevented them, to a great extent,
from reaching the high standard which He
desired them to attain, and from receiving
the blessings which He was ready to be-
stow upon them."-Patriarchs
and Proph-
ets,
page 378.
"The heart of Moses sank. He had
pleaded that Israel should not be destroyed,
[ 17
3
even though his own posterity might then
become a great nation. In his love for them
he had prayed that his name might be
blotted from the book of life rather than
that they should be left to perish. He had
imperiled all for them, and this was their
response. All their hardships, even their
imaginary sufferings, they charged upon
him; and their wicked murmurings made
doubly heavy the burden of care and re-
sponsibility under which he staggered. In
his distress he was tempted even to dis-
trust God. His prayer was almost a com-
plaint."—Ibid., pp. 379, 380.
4.
What arrangement was made to
help Moses in his work? Num. 11:16,
17, 24, 25.
NOTE.—"The Lord permitted Moses to
choose for himself the most faithful and
efficient men to share the responsibility with
him. Their influence would assist in hold-
ing in check the violence of the people, and
quelling insurrection; yet serious evils
would eventually result from their promo-
tion. They would never have been chosen
had Moses manifested faith corresponding
to the evidences he had witnessed of
God's power and goodness."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 380.
5.
How did Moses again reveal his
noble meekness and unselfishness?
Num. 11:27-29.
NOTE.—"Again evidence was given of the
lofty, unselfish spirit of the great leader.
Two of the seventy, humbly counting
themselves unworthy of so responsible a
position, had not joined their brethren
at the tabernacle ; but the Spirit of God
came upon them where they were, and
they, too, exercised the prophetic gift. On
being informed of this, Joshua desired to
check such irregularity, fearing that it
might tend to division. Jealous for the
honor of his master, 'My lord Moses,' he
said, 'forbid them.' The answer was, 'En-
viest thou for my sake? would God that
all the Lord's people were prophets, and
that the Lord would put His Spirit upon
them.'"—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages
381, 382.
Trouble in Moses' Family
6.
Who made the next serious at-
tack on Moses' authority? Num. 12:
1-3.
NOTE.—"Their accusations were borne by
Moses in uncomplaining silence. It was the
experience gained during the years of toil
and waiting in Midian—the spirit of hu-
mility and long-suffering there developed
—that prepared Moses to meet with pa-
tience the unbelief and murmuring of the
people and the pride and envy of those
who should have been his unswerving
helpers. Moses 'was very meek, above all
the men which were upon the face of the
earth,' and this is why he was granted
divine wisdom and guidance above all
others. Says the Scripture, 'The meek will
He guide in judgment: and the meek will
He teach His way.' Psalm 25:9. The meek
are guided by the Lord, because they are
teachable, willing to be instructed. They
have a sincere desire to know and to do
the will of
God."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 384.
7.
How was this challenge met by
the Lord? Num. 12:4-15.
Nora.—"This manifestation of the Lord's
displeasure was designed to be a warning
to all Israel, to check the growing spirit
of discontent and insubordination. If Mir-
iam's envy and dissatisfaction had not been
signally rebuked, it would have resulted
in great evil. Envy is one of the most
satanic traits that can exist in the human
heart, and it is one of the most baleful
in its effects. . . .
"It should not be regarded as a light
thing to speak evil of others or to make
ourselves judges of their motives or ac-
tions. 'He that speaketh evil of his brother,
and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of
the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou
judge the law, thou art not a doer of the
law, but a judge.' James 4:11. There is
[ 18 ]
but one Judge-He 'who both will bring
to light the hidden things of darkness, and
will make manifest the counsels of the
hearts.' 1 Corinthians 4:5. And whoever
takes it upon himself to judge and con-
demn his fellowmen is usurping the pre-
rogative of the Creator."-Patriarchs
and
Prophets,
pages 385, 386.
Failure at Kadesh
8.
When water failed at Kadesh,
how did the people act? Num. 20:1-5.
9.
In response to the prayer of
Moses and Aaron, what was the Lord's
command to them? Num. 20:6-8.
10.
In what respect did Moses and
Aaron fail in this situation, and how
was this act regarded by God? Num.
20:10, 11, 24.
NOTE.
-"At
the time when the water
failed, their own faith in the fulfillment
of God's promise had been shaken by the
murmuring and rebellion of the people.
. . . Wearied and disheartened, Moses and
Aaron had made no effort to stem the
current of popular feeling. Had they them-
selves manifested unwavering faith in God,
they might have set the matter before the
people in such a light as would have en-
abled them to bear this
test."-Patriarchs
and Prophets,
pages 417, 418.
11.
What privilege was taken away
because of their wrong conduct?
Num. 20:12.
12.
How frankly did Moses refer
to his failure? Deut. 1:37; 3:23-28;
4:21.
The Promised Land
13.
What noble principle guided
Moses' life? Heb. 11:24-26.
NOTE.
-"Moses
had been instructed in
regard to the final reward to be given to
the humble and obedient servants of God,
and worldly gain sank to its proper insig-
nificance in comparison."-Patriarchs
and
Prophets,
page 246.
14.
When did Moses "enter" the
land of Canaan? Matt. 17:3; Jude 9.
NOTE.
-"Upon
Mount Pisgah fifteen
centuries before, Moses had stood gazing
upon the Land of Promise. But because of
his sin at Meribah, it was not for him to
enter there. . . . But He who is 'able to
do exceeding abundantly above all that
we ask or think' (Eph. 3:20), had in this
measure answered His servant's prayer."-
The Desire of Ages,
page 421.
Lessons to Be Learned:
1.
The dedicated leader does not want
security, or greatness at the expense of his
people. Question 1.
2.
Those who serve God with honest and
loving hearts are not afraid of Him, and
they ask great things of Him. Question 2.
3.
In times of trial we may always turn
to God. Question 3.
4.
God, to relieve our present burdens
or fears, will occasionally grant a request
which we really do not need to make.
Question 4.
5.
The unselfish leader is not jealous of
other men's gifts or offices. Question 5.
6.
Attacks sometimes come from those
closest to us. Question 6.
7.
A wrong act on the part of leaders
may have great and serious consequences.
Questions 8-10.
8.
The contrite man does not gloss over
his sins or evade confession. Question 12.
9.
Sometimes one request is denied, only
to be replaced by a greater boon. Ques-
tion 14.
"From a worldly point of
view, money is power; but
from the Christian stand-
point, love is
power."-Tes-
timonies,
Vol.
4,
p. 138.
1
19
]
Lesson 6, for November 9, 1968
Samuel, the Prophet and Judge
LESSON SCRIPTURES: 1 Sam. 1:11-28; 2:18, 19, 26; 3:19-21; 7:3-6; 8:1-7; 12:1-5;
15:10, 11; 16:1-7.
MEMORY VERSE: "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or
on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth
not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord
looketh on the heart." 1 Sam. 16:7.
STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 569-642; "S.D.A. Bible Commen-
tary," Vol. 2.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Sunday: Questions 1-3.
Monday: Questions 4-6.
Tuesday: Questions 7-11.
Lesson Outline:
I. The Faithfulness of Samuel's Mother
1.
The vow of Hannah and its
fulfillment. 1 Sam. 1:11, 17, 20, 24.
2.
Samuel lent to the Lord for life.
1 Sam. 1:26-28.
3.
Hannah's later care of Samuel.
1 Sam. 2:18, 19.
II. Samuel's Call to the Prophetic Office
4.
Samuel's growth and development.
1 Sam. 2:26.
5.
Samuel's prophetic role.
1 Sam. 3:19-21.
6.
Samuel's work of reformation.
1 Sam. 7:3-6.
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
Thursday: Read from study helps.
Friday: Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Learned," review entire lesson.
III. The Demands for a King
7.
The improper conduct of Samuel's
sons. 1 Sam. 8:1, 3.
8.
The people's desire for a monarchy.
1 Sam. 8:4, 5.
9.
Samuel's wounded feelings.
1 Sam. 8:6.
10.
The people's rejection of God.
1 Sam. 8:7.
11.
Samuel's spotless record.
1 Sam. 12:1-5.
IV. Samuel's Relations With Saul
12.
The condemnation of Saul.
1 Sam. 15:10, 11.
13.
Samuel's commission to anoint a
son of Jesse. 1 Sam. 16:1.
14.
Samuel's mistaken, and the Lord's
true, evaluation of Eliab.
1 Sam. 16:6, 7.
THE LESSON
The Faithfulness of Samuel's
Mother
1. What vow did Hannah make,
and how did she carry it out? 1 Sam.
1:11, 17, 20, 24.
NOTE.
-"Hannah's prayer was granted;
she received the gift for which she had so
earnestly entreated. As she 'looked upon
the child, she called him Samuel-`asked of
God.' As soon as the little one was old
enough to be separated from his mother,
she fulfilled her vow. She loved her child
[ 20 ]
with all the devotion of a mother's heart;
day by day, as she watched his expanding
powers and listened to his childish prattle,
her affections entwined about him more
closely. He was her only son, the special
gift of Heaven; but she had received him
as a treasure consecrated to God, and she
would not withhold from the Giver His
own."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 570,
571.
2.
In her presentation, what ex-
pression of dedication did Hannah
make? 1 Sam. 1:26-28.
3.
While the child Samuel minis-
tered before the Lord, how did Han-
nah show her solicitude for her son?
1 Sam. 2:18, 19.
NOTE.—"When separated from her child,
the faithful mother's solicitude did not
cease. Every day he was the subject of her
prayers. . . . She did not ask for her son
worldly greatness, but she earnestly pleaded
that he might attain that greatness which
Heaven values—that he might honor God
and bless his fellowmen."—Patriarchs
and
Prophets,
page 572.
Samuel's Call to the
Prophetic Office
4.
What description is given of
Samuel's growth and development?
1 Sam. 2:26. Compare Luke 2:52.
NOTE.—"Young as he was when brought
to minister in the tabernacle, Samuel had
even then duties to perform in the service
of God, according to his capacity. These
were at first very humble, and not always
pleasant; but they were performed to the
best of his ability, and with a willing heart.
His religion was carried into every duty
of life. He regarded himself as God's ser-
vant, and his work as God's work. His
efforts were accepted, because they were
prompted by love to God and a sincere
desire to do His will. It was thus that
Samuel became a co-worker with the Lord
of heaven and earth. And God fitted him
to accomplish a great work for Israel.
"If children were taught to regard the
humble round of everyday duties as the
course marked out for them by the Lord,
as a school in which they were to be
trained to render faithful and efficient ser-
vice, how much more pleasant and honor-
able would their work appear. To perform
every duty as unto the Lord, throws a
charm around the humblest employment
and links the workers on earth with the
holy beings who do God's will in heaven."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 573, 574.
5.
What recognition was accorded
Samuel as a prophet? 1 Sam. 3:19-21.
NOTE.—"During the years since the Lord
first manifested Himself to the son of
Hannah, Samuel's call to the prophetic
office had come to be acknowledged by the
whole nation. By faithfully delivering the
divine warning to the house of Eli, painful
and trying as the duty had been, Samuel
had given proof of his fidelity as Jeho-
vah's messenger."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
pages 589, 590.
6.
What work was carried on by
Samuel after his call to the prophetic
office? How were his labors for the
people rewarded? 1 Sam. 7:3-6.
NOTE.—"The Israelites as a nation still
continued in a state of irreligion and
idolatry, and as a punishment they re-
mained in subjection to the Philistines.
During this time Samuel visited the cities
and villages throughout the land, seeking
to turn the hearts of the people to the
God of their fathers; and his efforts were
not without good results. . . .
"With the cooperation of the heads of
the tribes, a large assembly was gathered
at Mizpeh. Here a solemn fast was held.
With deep humiliation the people con-
fessed their sins, and as an evidence of
their determination to obey the instruc-
tions they had heard, they invested Sam-
uel with the authority of
judge."—Patri-
archs and Prophets,
page 590.
[ 21 ]
The Demands for a King
7.
In his later years, whom did
Samuel appoint to the office of judge,
and what is said of the character of
these young men? 1 Sam. 8:1, 3.
NoTE.—"The sons of the prophet had not
heeded the precepts which he had sought
to impress upon their minds. They had
not copied the pure, unselfish life of their
father. The warning given to Eli had
not exerted the influence upon the mind of
Samuel that it should have done. He had
been to some extent too indulgent with
his sons, and the result was apparent in
their character and
life."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 604.
8.
After citing the conduct of Sam-
uel's sons as their apparent reason,
what plan did the elders of Israel
seek to put into operation? 1 Sam.
8:4, 5.
NOTE.—"The injustice of these judges
caused much dissatisfaction, and a pretext
was thus furnished for urging the change
that had long been secretly desired. . . .
The cases of abuse among the people
had not been referred to Samuel. Had the
evil course of his sons been known to
him, he would have removed them without
delay ; but this was not what the petition-
ers desired. Samuel saw that their real
motive was discontent and pride, and that
their demand was the result of a deliberate
and determined purpose."—Patriarchs
and
Prophets,
page 604.
9.
How did Samuel feel about the
request of the elders? 1 Sam. 8:6.
NOTE.—"The aged prophet looked upon
the request as a censure upon himself, and
a direct effort to set him aside. He did
not, however, reveal his feelings; he ut-
tered no reproach, but carried the matter
to the Lord in prayer and sought counsel
from Him
alone."—Patriarchs and Proph-
ets,
pages 604, 605.
10.
Whom were the people actually
rejecting? 1 Sam. 8:7.
NOTE.—"The people adopted many of
the customs of their heathen neighbors and
thus sacrificed to a great degree their own
peculiar, holy character. Gradually they
lost their reverence for God and ceased to
prize the honor of being His chosen
peo-
ple."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 603.
"And still the longing to conform to
worldly practices and customs exists among
the professed people of God. As they de-
part from the Lord they become ambitious
for the gains and honors of the world.
Christians are constantly seeking to imi-
tate the practices of those who worship
the god of this world."—Ibid., p. 607.
11.
In his old age, what statement
did Samuel make to the assembled
hosts of Israel? 1 Sam. 12:1-5.
NoTE.—"Samuel was not seeking merely
to justify his own course. He had pre-
viously set forth the principles that should
govern both the king and the people, and
he desired to add to his words the weight
of his own example. From childhood he
had been connected with the work of God,
and during his long life one object had
been ever before him—the glory of God
and the highest good of
Israel."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 614.
Samuel's Relations With Saul
12.
As Saul was returning from his
war with the Amalekites, what mes-
sage was given to Samuel, and how
was he affected by it? 1 Sam. 15:
10, 11.
NoTE.—Samuel did not gloat over the
failure of his successor. He was not small
enough to rejoice in the fact that his
record shone with even greater brilliance
when compared to that of the vain and
disobedient king. Here was not a man
given to petty jealousy, to harbored
grudges, to underhanded sniping at fellow
[ 22 ]
leaders. Notice such statements as these:
"While Saul and his army were march-
ing home in the flush of victory, there was
deep anguish in the home of Samuel the
prophet. He had received a message from
the Lord denouncing the course of the
king. . . . The prophet was deeply grieved
over the course of the rebellious king, and
he wept and prayed all night for a re-
versing of the terrible sentence. . . .
"The message of Saul's rejection brought
unspeakable grief to the heart of Samuel."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 629, 630.
13.
As. Samuel continued to grieve
over Saul's rejection, what commis-
sion did he receive? 1 Sam. 16:1.
14.
How did Samuel's evaluation of
Eliab differ from the Lord's? 1 Sam.
16:6, 7.
NOTE.—"We may learn from the mistake
of Samuel how vain is the estimation that
rests on beauty of face or nobility of stat-
ure. We may see how incapable is man's
wisdom of understanding the secrets of
the heart or of comprehending the coun-
sels of God without special enlightenment
from
heaven."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 638.
Lessons to Be Learned:
1.
A mother of integrity can give an
excellent beginning and direction to the
life of her child. Questions 2, 3.
2.
It is possible to develop a good char-
acter in an environment which contains
evil and sinful influences. Question 4.
3.
A true servant of God will work
tirelessly for the spiritual upbuilding of
the people of God. Question 6.
4.
Parents of good reputation and high
character may have children who do not
choose to follow their example. Question 7.
5.
As the loyalty of God's people wanes,
their marked separation from the world
steadily disappears. Questions 8, 10.
6.
Every worker for God should be able
to claim at any time a record of complete
rectitude. Question 11.
7.
Largehearted men do not get pleasure
from the failures of others. Question 12.
8.
Outward appearance is not always a
safe guide to character. Question 14.
Lesson 7, for November 16, 1968
Elijah, Man of Like Passions—Part I
LESSON SCRIPTURES: 1 Kings 16:29-33; 17:1-16; 18:18-45; Isa. 58:6-11; Matt.
10:40-42; James 5:17, 18.
MEMORY VERSE: "Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he
prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the
space of three years and six months." James 5:17.
STUDY HELPS: "Prophets and Kings," pages 119-154; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary,"
Vol. 2.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
Sunday: Questions 1-4.
Thursday: Read from study helps.
Monday: Questions 5-8.
Friday: Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Tuesday: Questions 9-11.
Learned," review entire lesson.
[23
1
Lesson Outline:
I. Idolatry Condemned
1.
Ahab's introduction of Baal
worship. 1 Kings 16:29-33.
2.
Elijah's dire prediction.
1 Kings 17:1.
II. God's Care of the Prophet
3.
Elijah at the brook Cherith.
1 Kings 17:2-6.
4.
Elijah at the home of a widow.
1 Kings 17:7-9.
III. Hospitality Rewarded
5.
The widow's plight.
1 Kings 17:10-12.
6.
The widow's response to the
prophet's pleas and promise.
1 Kings 17:13-16.
7. The acceptable fast. Isa. 58:6-11.
8. A New Testament admonition on
hospitality. Matt. 10:40-42.
IV. The Prophet's Rebuke and
Challenge
9. Elijah's mission to Ahab.
1 Kings 18:18 (first part).
10. The prophet's rebuke.
1 Kings 18:18 (last part).
11. The prophet's challenge.
1 Kings 18:21.
V. The Prophet's Loyalty
12. Elijah's vindication of God.
1 Kings 18:22-24, 30-39.
13. Elijah's reward for faith and
fidelity. 1 Kings 18:42-45.
14. "A man of like passions."
James 5:17, 18.
THE LESSON
Idolatry Condemned
1. What form did idolatry take in
Elijah's time? 1 Kings 16:29-33.
NorE.-"From Elijah's experience dur-
ing those days of discouragement and ap-
parent defeat there are many lessons to
be drawn, lessons invaluable to the serv-
ants of God in this age, marked as it is by
general departure from right. The apostasy
prevailing today is similar to that which in
the prophet's day overspread Israel. In the
exaltation of the human above the divine,
in the praise of popular leaders, in the
worship of mammon, and in the placing
of the teachings of science above the
truths of revelation, multitudes today are
following after
Baal."-Prophets and Kings,
page 170.
"The present age is one of idolatry, as
verily as was that in which Elijah lived.
No outward shrine may be visible; there
may be no image for the eye to rest upon;
yet thousands are following after the gods
of this world-after riches, fame, pleasure,
and the pleasing fables that permit man to
follow the inclinations of the unregenerate
heart. Multitudes have a wrong conception
of God and His attributes, and are as
truly serving a false god as were the wor-
shipers of
Baal."-Ibid.,
p. 177.
2.
What dire prediction did Elijah
make because of the idolatry of the
people? 1 Kings 17:1.
God's Care of the Prophet
3.
During the first months of fam-
ine how did God care for Elijah's
needs? 1 Kings 17:2-6.
Nom.-"For a time Elijah remained hid-
den in the mountains by the brook Cherith.
There for many months he was mirac-
ulously provided with
food."-Prophets
and Kings,
page 129.
4.
What was God's second method
of providing for Elijah's needs? 1
Kings 17:7-9.
NOTE.-"This
woman was not an Israel-
ite. She had never had the privileges and
blessings that the chosen people of God
had enjoyed; but she was a believer in the
24
true God and had walked in all the light
that was shining on her pathway. And
now, when there was no safety for Elijah
in the land of Israel, God sent him to this
woman to find an asylum in her home."—
Prophets and Kings,
page 129.
Hospitality Rewarded
5.
How severely were this widow
and her child affected by the famine?
1 Kings 17:10-12.
NOTE.—"In this poverty-stricken home
the famine pressed sore, and the pitifully
meager fare seemed about to fail. The com-
ing of Elijah on the very day when the
widow feared that she must give up the
struggle to sustain life tested to the ut-
most her faith in the power of the living
God to provide for her necessities. But
even in her dire extremity she bore witness
to her faith by a compliance with the re-
quest of the stranger who was asking her
to share her last morsel with him."—
Prophets and Kings,
page 130.
6.
How did the widow respond to
Elijah's request and promise? 1 Kings
17:13-16.
NOTE.—"No greater test of faith than
this could have been required. The widow
had ifitherto treated all strangers with
kindness and liberality. Now, regardless of
the suffering that might result to herself
and child, and trusting in the God of
Israel to supply her every need, she met
this supreme test of hospitality by doing
`according to the saying of Elijah.'
"Wonderful was the hospitality shown to
God's prophet by this Phoenician woman,
and wonderfully were her faith and gen-
erosity
rewarded."—Prophets and Kings,
pages 130, 131.
7.
In what words does Isaiah urge
hospitality and kindness? Isa. 58:6-11.
8.
What New Testament admoni-
tion commends Christian benevolence
and charity? Matt. 10:40-42.
NOTE.—"These words [`Be not forgetful
to entertain strangers. . .
Heb. 13:2.]
have lost none of their force through the
lapse of time. Our heavenly Father still
continues to place in the pathway of His
children opportunities that are blessings in
disguise; and those who improve these op-
portunities find great
joy."—Prophets and
Kings,
page 132.
The Prophets Rebuke
and Challenge
9.
How plainly and definitely did
Elijah rebuke Ahab? 1 Kings 18:18
(first part).
NOTE.—"Today there is need of the voice
of stern rebuke; for grievous sins have
separated the people from God. Infidelity
is fast becoming fashionable. . . . The
smooth sermons so often preached make
no lasting impression. . . .
"There are many professed Christians
who, if they should express their real feel-
ings, would say, What need is there of
speaking so plainly
?"—Prophets and Kings,
page 140.
10.
In this plain rebuke just re-
ferred to, what were the people
charged with violating? 1 Kings 18:
18 (last part).
NOTE.—"But how is that law disre-
garded! Behold the world today in open
rebellion against God. . . .
"There is a growing contempt for law
and order, directly traceable to a violation
of the plain commands of Jehovah."—
Prophets and Kings,
page 185.
11.
How pointedly does Elijah re-
fer to the wavering loyalty of the
Israelites? 1 Kings 18:21.
NotE.—"
'How long halt ye between two
opinions?'
Sometimes they followed God
and sometimes Baal, as if they could not
[ 26 ]
make up their minds as to who was the
true God. The Hebrew verb for
halt
is that
used for the unsteady and uncertain gait of
a lame man. This traditional rendering is
supported by the words which follow:
'if
the LORD be God.'
Some modern scholars
translate:
'how long limp ye upon the two
knee joints?'
a contemptuous description of
the ritual dance which was part of Baal
worship."—Slotki,
Kings I and II, Soncino
Bible,
Vol. 4, pp. 130, 131.
The Prophet's Loyalty
12.
In what remarkable manner
did Elijah vindicate God? 1 Kings
18:22-24, 30-39.
NoTE.—"The Lord abhors indifference
and disloyalty in a time of crisis in His
work. . . . His special blessing accompanies
the labors of men of action, men who will
not be swerved from the straight line of
duty, but who with divine energy will in-
quire, 'Who is on the Lord's side?'
"—
Prophets and Kings,
page 148.
13.
Having been obedient, for what
could Elijah pray in faith? 1 Kings
18:42-45.
NOTE.—"He simply spoke the word that
the Spirit of the Lord had moved him to
speak in response to his own strong faith.
Throughout the day he had unflinchingly
performed the will of God and had revealed
his implicit confidence in the prophecies of
God's Word; and now, having done all
that was in his power to do, he knew that
Heaven would freely bestow the blessings
foretold."—Prophets
and Kings,
pages 155,
156.
14.
In the language of the apostle
James, how is the faith of Elijah com-
mended? James 5:17, 18.
NOTE.—"Faith such as this is needed in
the world today—faith that will lay hold
on the promises of God's Word and refuse
to let go until Heaven hears. Faith such
as this connects us closely with Heaven
and brings us strength for coping with the
powers of darkness. . . . Through faith
we today are to reach the heights of God's
purpose for us. `If thou canst believe, all
things are possible to him that believeth.' "
—Prophets and Kings,
page 157.
Lessons to Be Learned:
1.
The idolatry of Elijah's day has its
modern counterpart. Question 1.
2.
The judgment of God is pronounced
on idolatry. Question 2.
3.
God provides for the special needs
of His messengers. Questions 3, 4.
4.
God honors the true spirit of hospi-
tality. Questions 5, 6.
5.
Wickedness and wrongdoing should be
severely rebuked. Question 9.
6.
All evil and distress can be traced to
a violation of the law of God. Question 10.
7.
God seeks men of unwavering loyalty
and of positive action. Questions 11, 12.
8.
God can honor prayers of faith based
on obedience and devotion. Questions 13, 14.
"Some think that only a por-
tion of their means is the
Lord's. When they have set
apart a portion for religious
and charitable purposes, they
regard the remainder as their
own. . . . But in this they
mistake. All we possess is
the
Lord's."—Christ's Object
Lessons,
page 351.
1
26]
Lesson 8, for November 23, 1968
Elijah, Man of Like Passions-Part II
LESSON SCRIPTURES: 1 Kings 18:46; 19:1-21; 22:51-53; 2 Kings 1:2-4, 17; 2:3-15;
Matt. 17:3.
MEMORY VERSE: "Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming
of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: and he shall turn the heart of
the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest
I come and smite the earth with a curse." Malachi 4:5, 6.
STUDY HELPS: "Prophets and Kings," pages 155-189, 204-216; "S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary," Vol. 2.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Sunday: Questions 1-5.
Monday: Questions 6-8.
Tuesday: Questions 9-11.
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
0
Thursday: Read from study helps.
0
Friday: Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Learned," review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. The Prophet's Strength and
Weakness
1.
His modesty and trust in God.
1 Kings 18:46.
2.
His depression and fear.
1 Kings 19:1-4.
II. The Lord's Dealing With Elijah
3.
God does not forsake Elijah.
1 Kings 19:5-8.
4.
He teaches the prophet a lesson.
1 Kings 19:11, 12.
5.
He gives the prophet encouraging
information. 1 Kings 19:18.
III. The Reformation Under Elijah
Only Partial
6. Baal worship not ended.
1 Kings 22:51-53.
7.
Baal worship in Ahaziah's reign.
2 Kings 1:2, 3.
8.
Baal worship brings further
punishment. 2 Kings 1:4, 17.
9.
The school of the prophets.
2 Kings 2:3, 5.
IV. Elijah's Successor
10. Elijah instructed to anoint his
successor. 1 Kings 19:15, 16.
11. Elisha's appointment. 1 Kings
19:19.
12. Elisha's response to the call.
1 Kings 19:21.
13. Elisha's request granted.
2 Kings 2:9, 10, 15.
14. Elisha's later return. Matt. 17:3.
THE LESSON
The Prophet's Strength
and Weakness
1. What act of Elijah revealed his
humility? 1 Kings 18:46.
2. How did Elijah demonstrate that
he was not above the frailties of man-
kind? 1 Kings 19:1-4.
(27]
NOTE.—"Into the experience of all there
come times of keen disappointment and
utter discouragement—days when sorrow
is the portion, and it is hard to believe that
God is still the kind benefactor of His
earthborn children; days when troubles
harass the soul, till death seems preferable
to life. . . . Could we at such times discern
with spiritual insight the meaning of God's
providences we should see angels seeking
to save us from • ourselves, striving to plant
our feet upon a foundation more firm than
the everlasting hills, and new faith, new
life, would spring into
being."—Prophets
and Kings,
page 162.
The Lord's Dealing With Elijah
3.
How did Elijah learn that he
was not forsaken in his discouraged
and depressed flight from duty? 1
Kings 19:5-8.
NOTE.—"Did God forsake Elijah in his
hour of trial? Oh, no! He loved His ser-
vant no less when Elijah felt himself for-
saken of God and man than when, in
answer to his prayer, fire flashed from
heaven."—Prophets and Kings,
page 166.
4.
How did God reveal Himself to
Elijah? 1 Kings 19:11, 12.
NOTE.—"Not in mighty manifestations of
divine power, but by 'a still small voice,'
did God choose to reveal Himself to His
servant. He desired to teach Elijah that it
is not always the work that makes the
greatest demonstration that is most suc-
cessful in accomplishing His purpose. . . .
"Not by eloquence or logic are men's
hearts reached, but by the sweet influences
of the Holy Spirit, which operate quietly
yet surely in transforming and developing
character. It is the still, small voice of the
Spirit of God that has power to change
the
heart."—Prophets and Kings,
pages
168, 169.
5.
What message of the Lord
brought fresh courage to Elijah? 1
Kings 19:18.
NOTE.—"God has many thousands who
have not bowed the knee to Baal, many
who long to understand more fully in re-
gard to Christ and the law, many who are
hoping against hope that Jesus will come
soon to end the reign of sin and death."—
Prophets and Kings,
page 171.
The Reformation Under Elijah
Only Partial
6.
What indicates that Baal wor-
ship did not end with the marvelous
experience on Mount Carmel? 1 Kings
22:51-53.
7.
When King Ahaziah met with a
serious accident, to whom did he
appeal for help? What message came
from Elijah? 2 Kings 1:2, 3.
8.
How severely did the Lord pun-
ish the impious king? 2 Kings 1:4, 17.
NOTE.—"Men today may not pay homage
to heathen gods, yet thousands are wor-
shiping at Satan's shrine as verily as did
the king of Israel. The spirit of idolatry
is rife in the world today, although, under
the influence of science and education, it
has assumed forms more refined and at-
tractive than in the days when Ahaziah
sought to the god of Ekron. . . .
"Today the mysteries of heathen worship
are replaced by the secret associations and
seances, the obscurities and wonders, of
spiritistic mediums. . . .
"There are many who shrink with horror
from the thought of consulting spirit me-
diums, but who are attracted by more
pleasing forms of spiritism. Others are led
astray by the teachings of Christian Science,
and by the mysticism of Theosophy and
other Oriental religions.
"The apostles of nearly all forms of
spiritism claim to have power to heal. They
[ 28 )
attribute this power to electricity, magne-
tism, the so-called 'sympathetic remedies,'
or to latent forces within the mind of man.
And there are not a few, even in this Chris-
tian age, who go to these healers, instead
of trusting in the power of the living God
and the skill of well-qualified physicians."
—Prophets and Kings,
pages 210, 211.
9.
Judging from the record of his
last visit, what schools had been re-
established by Elijah? 2 Kings 2:3, 5.
Compare
2
Kings 4:1, 38; 6:1.
NOTE.—"The schools of
the
prophets, es-
tablished by Samuel, had fallen into decay
during the years of Israel's apostasy. Elijah
reestablished these schools, making pro-
vision for young men to gain an education
that would lead them to magnify the law
and make it honorable. Three of these
schools, one at Gilgal, one at Bethel, and
one at Jericho, are mentioned in the
rec-
ord."—Prophets and Kings,
pages 224, 225.
Elijah's Successor
10.
Whom did God ask Elijah to
appoint to the prophetic office? 1
Kings 19:15, 16.
11.
In what activity was Elisha
engaged when Elijah "cast his mantle
upon him"? 1 Kings 19:19.
NOTE.—"The prophetic call came to Eli-
sha while, with his father's servants, he was
plowing in the field. He had taken up the
work that lay nearest. . . . While co-
operating with his father in the homelife
duties, he was learning to cooperate with
God.
"By faithfulness in little things, Elisha
was preparing for weightier trusts. . . .
None can know what may be God's pur-
pose in His discipline; but all may be cer-
tain that faithfulness in little things is the
evidence of fitness for greater responsi-
bilities. Every act of life is a revelation of
character, and he only who in small duties
proves himself 'a workman that needeth
not to be ashamed' can be honored by God
with higher
service."—Prophets and Kings,
page 218.
12.
How did Elisha respond to
the invitation extended by Elijah?
1 Kings 19:21.
NOTE.—"Elisha accepted the call to ser-
vice, casting no backward glance at the
pleasures and comforts he was leaving. . . .
"The call to place all on the altar of
service comes to each one. We are not all
asked to serve as Elisha served, nor are
we all bidden to sell everything, we have;
but God asks us to give His service the
first place in our lives, to allow no day
to pass without doing something to ad-
vance His work in the earth. . . . It is the
consecration of the life and all its interests,
that is necessary."—Prophets
and Kings,
page 221.
13.
When given an opportunity to
request a parting gift from Elijah,
for what did Elisha ask, and with
what result? 2 Kings 2:9, 10, 15.
NOTE.—"Elisha asked not for worldly
honor, or for a high place among the great
men of earth. That which he craved was a
large measure of the Spirit that God had
bestowed so freely upon the one about to
be honored with translation. He knew that
nothing but the Spirit which had rested
upon Elijah could fit him to fill the place
in Israel to which God had called him."—
Prophets and Kings,
pages 226, 227.
14.
On what occasion did Elijah
return to this earth? Matt. 17:3.
NOTE.—"Elijah was a type of the saints
who will be living on the earth at the time
of the second advent of Christ. . . . It was
[ 29 ]
as a representative of those who shall be
thus translated that Elijah, near the close
of Christ's earthly ministry, was permitted
to stand with Moses by the side of the
Saviour on the mount of transfiguration.
In these glorified ones, the disciples saw in
miniature a representation of the kingdom
of the redeemed."-Prophets
and Kings,
page 227.
Lessons to Be Learned:
1.
The messengers to God are modest
men. Question 1.
2.
Even prophets are subject to the
weaknesses of mankind. Question 2.
3.
God does not cast aside those who
break under discouragement and depres-
sion. Question 3.
4.
The power of God often operates in
quiet ways. Question 4.
5.
The Lord may have many faithful
servants unknown to His church and its
ministry. Question 5.
6.
Like Elijah, we should recognize the
value of Christian education. Question 9.
7.
Faithfulness in little things is a pre-
requisite to being entrusted with greater
things. Question 11.
8.
God desires our undivided devotion.
Question 12.
9.
Undivided devotion and great faith
are often rewarded by magnificent and
noble gifts. Question 13.
Lesson 9, for November 30, 1968
Elisha, the Prophet With the Double Portion-Part I
LESSON SCRIPTURES:
2 Kings 2:19-24;
4;
6:1-7; Matt. 14:13-21; 15:32-38.
MEMORY VERSE:
"Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savor,
wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be
cast out, and to be trodden underfoot of men." Matt. 5:13.
STUDY HELPS:
"Prophets and Kings," pages 229-243; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary,"
Vol. 2.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
Sunday: Questions 1-3.
Thursday: Read from study helps.
Monday: Questions 4-7.
Friday: Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Tuesday: Questions 8-11.
Learned," review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. Elisha and the Men of Jericho
1.
The need of the city. 2 Kings 2:19.
2.
The Lord's provision of water.
2 Kings 2:20-22.
3.
The symbolic meaning of the salt.
Matt. 5:13.
II. Elisha's Prophetic Role Vindicated
4. Mockery in Bethel. 2 Kings
2
:23 .
5. The Lord's drastic action.
2 Kings 2:24.
III. Hospitality Again Rewarded
6.
Kindness of woman of Shunem.
2 Kings 4:8-10.
7.
The woman's reward.
2 Kings 4:11-17.
8.
The woman's tragic hour.
2 Kings 4:18-25.
9.
The second great reward.
2 Kings 4:25-37.
30
IV. Occasions of Supernatural Care
10.
The miracle of the pottage.
2 Kings 4:38-41.
11.
The miracle of feeding one
hundred men. 2 Kings 4:42-44.
12.
Similar miracles in Jesus' ministry.
Matt. 14:13-21; 15:32-38.
13.
The miracle of the oil.
2 Kings 4:1-7.
14.
The miracle of the ax head.
2 Kings 6:1-7.
THE LESSON
Elisha and the Men of Jericho
1.
Why did the men of Jericho
come to Elisha? 2 Kings 2:19. See
verse 18.
NOTE.—"Not far from Jericho, in the
midst of fruitful groves, was one of the
schools of the prophets, and thither, after
the ascension of Elijah, Elisha went. . . .
The spring that in former years had been
pure and life-giving, and had contributed
largely to the water supply of the city and
the surrounding district, was now unfit
for
use."—Prophets and Kings,
page 230.
2.
How did the Lord miraculously
take care of the needs of the people
of Jericho? 2 Kings 2:20-22.
NOTE.—"Many are the spiritual lessons
to be gathered from the story of the heal-
ing of the waters. The new cruse, the salt,
the spring—all are highly symbolic."—
Prophets and Kings,
page 231.
3.
During His earthly sojourn, how
did Jesus refer to salt as a symbol?
Matt. 5:13.
and blessing where before had been blight-
ing and death. When God compares His
children to salt, He would teach them that
His purpose in making them the subjects
of His grace is that they may become
agents in saving others. . . .
"Salt must be mingled with the substance
to which it is added; it must penetfate, in-
fuse it, that it may be preserved. So it is
through personal contact and association
that men are reached by the saving power
of the gospel. They are not saved as
masses, but as individuals."—Prophets
and
Kings,
pages 231, 232.
Elisha's Prophetic Role
Vindicated
4.
How did some children treat
Elisha early in his ministry? 2 Kings
2:23.
NOTE.—In
Prophets and Kings
the "little
children" are referred to as "ungodly
youth"
and "these
youth."—Page
235. They are
also called "idle, rude, dissolute
youth."—
Page 236. Evidently they had reached the
years of accountability.
5.
What drastic measure did the
Lord take to protect the dignity of
the prophet's office? 2 Kings 2:24.
NoTE.—"In casting salt into the bitter
spring, Elisha taught the same spiritual
lesson imparted centuries later by the
Saviour to His disciples when He declared,
`Ye are the salt of the earth.' Matthew 5:
13. The salt mingling with the polluted
spring purified its waters and brought life
NOTE.—"Had Elisha allowed the mockery
to pass unnoticed, he would have con-
tinued to be ridiculed and reviled by the
rabble, and his mission to instruct and
save in a time of grave national peril
might have been defeated. This one in-
stance of terrible severity was sufficient
[ 31
to command respect throughout his life... .
"Reverence should be shown for God's
representatives—for ministers, teachers, and
parents, who are called to speak and act in
His stead. In the respect shown them, God
is honored."—Prophets
and Kings,
pages
236, 237.
Hospitality Again Rewarded
6.
What hospitable provision did
a woman of Shunem make for Elisha?
2 Kings 4:8-10.
7.
How did God reward this wom-
an's hospitality and kindness? 2 Kings
4:11-17.
NorE.—Notice that Gehazi, who later
failed miserably, was so understanding and
sensitive at this time that he suggested
the gift the woman would most want and
which the Lord graciously granted.
8.
Years later, when death took her
son, what did the Shunammite do?
2 Kings 4:18-25.
9.
Through the ministry of Elisha,
how did the Lord change her sorrow
to joy? 2 Kings 4:25-37.
NOTE.—"Christ,
the great Life-giver, re-
stored her son to her. In like manner will
His faithful ones be rewarded, when, at
His coming, death loses its sting and the
grave is robbed of the victory it has
claimed. Then will He restore to His ser-
vants the children that have been taken
from them by
death."—Prophets and Kings,
page 239.
See also Luke 7:11-17; 8:40-42, 49-56;
John 11:38-44; Acts 20:9-12.
Occasions of Supernatural Care
10.
In what incident did God use
Elisha to protect His followers from
death? 2 Kings 4:38-41.
NorE.—"Like the Saviour of mankind, of
whom he was a type, Elisha in his ministry
among men combined the work of healing
with that of teaching. . . .
"It was on the occasion of one of his
visits to the school established at Gilgal
that he healed the poisoned pottage."—
Prophets and Kings,
page 240.
11.
By what miracle did the Lord
reveal His power to provide food for
His children? 2 Kings 4:42-44.
NoTE.—"At Gilgal, also, while the dearth
was still in the land, Elisha fed one hun-
dred men....
"What condescension it was on the part
of Christ, through His messenger, to work
this miracle to satisfy hunger ! Again and
again since that time, though not always
in so marked and perceptible a manner, has
the Lord Jesus worked to supply human
need. If we had clearer spiritual discern-
ment we would recognize more readily than
we do God's compassionate dealing with the
children of
men."—Prophets and Kings,
page 241.
12.
Of which miracle of Jesus was
this an early parallel? Matt. 14:13-21;
15:32-38.
NOTE.—"It
is the grace of God on the
small portion that makes it all-sufficient.
God's hand can multiply it a hundredfold."
—Prophets and Kings,
page 241.
"The lesson is for God's children in
every age. When the Lord gives a work to
be done, let not men stop to inquire into
the reasonableness of the command or the
probable result of their efforts to obey. The
supply in their hands may seem to fall short
of the need to be filled; but in the hands
of the Lord it will prove more than suffi-
cient."—Ibid., p. 243.
13.
What miracle was performed to
meet a financial crisis in the home
of a student's widow? 2 Kings 4:1-7.
[ 32 ]
14. Notice for how relatively small
a matter another miracle was per-
formed for a student. 2 Kings 6:1-7.
Lessons to Be Learned:
2.
The principles of the gospel, working
in and through Christians, are the salt of
the earth. Question 3.
3.
Sin is fitly symbolized by a polluted
stream. Question 3.
4.
"Even kindness has its limits." Ques-
tions 4, 5.
5.
Hospitality ultimately brings a re-
I. On various occasions the Lord works
ward. Questions 6-9.
miracles to provide for man's practical
6. God often gives us gifts beyond our
needs. Questions 1, 2, 11-14.
fondest hopes. Question 7.
Lesson 10, for December 7, 1968
Elisha, the Prophet With the Double Portion-Part II
LESSON SCRIPTURES:
2 Kings 5:1-27; 6:8-33; 7:1, 6, 7, 16; 13:14; Luke 4:27.
MEMORY VERSE:
"Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be
with them." 2 Kings 6:16.
STUDY HELPS:
"Prophets and Kings," pages 244-264; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary,"
Vol. 2.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
Sunday: Questions 1-4.
Thursday: Read from study helps.
Monday: Questions 5-8.
Friday: Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Tuesday: Questions 9-11.
Learned," review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. Elisha and Naaman
1.
Naaman the leper visits Israel.
2 Kings 5:1-15.
2.
Naaman's offer of a gift.
2 Kings 5:16.
3.
Gehazi's misrepresentation.
2 Kings 5:20-24.
4.
Gehazi's punishment.
2 Kings 5:25-27.
5.
Jesus' reference to Naaman.
Luke 4:27.
II. War Between Syria and Israel
6. The Syrian king disturbed.
2 Kings 6:8-12.
7.
The Syrian king's foolish plan.
2 Kings 6:13, 14.
8.
The fear of Elisha's servant.
2 Kings 6:15.
9.
Elisha's courage and confidence.
2 Kings 6:16, 17.
III. Famine in Israel
10.
The Lord's kindly treatment of
the Syrians. 2 Kings 6:18-23.
11.
A severe famine. 2 Kings 6:24, 25.
12.
Elisha blamed. 2 Kings 6:30-33.
13.
Elisha's encouragement of king
and people. 2 Kings 7:1, 6, 7, 16.
14.
At Elisha's death the prophet's
value acclaimed. 2 Kings 13:14.
[33
7
THE LESSON
Elisha and Naaman
1.
What remedy was offered to the
leprous Naaman and under what cir-
cumstances? 2 Kings 5:1-15.
NOTE.—"The conduct of the captive maid,
the way that she bore herself in that
heathen home, is a strong witness to the
power of early home training. There is no
higher trust than that committed to fa-
thers and mothers in the care and training
of their children. Parents have to do with
the very foundations of habit and char-
acter. By their example and teaching the
future of their children is largely decided."
—Prophets and Kings,
page 245.
2.
When Naaman offered Elisha a
gift for the miracle of healing, how
did Elisha respond? 2 Kings 5:16.
NOTE.—"It was not for him to take pay-
ment for a blessing that God had in mercy
bestowed."—Prophets
and Kings,
page 250.
As one man so aptly put it, "I do not
seek yours, but you." No worker for God
can ever afford to allow worldly consider-
ations to enter into his ministry for souls.
The gifts of God can never bear price tags.
3.
What blemish in Gehazi's char-
acter led him to a shameful error?
2 Kings 5:20-24.
4.
How did the Lord, through
Elisha, deal with this deception?
2 Kings 5:25-27.
NozE.—"Elisha's words of rebuke were
not only for his servant Gehazi but for
those in God's church today who manifest
the same spirit as did Gehazi. In our day
God has again been very near, and wonder-
ful miracles of grace have been wrought in
many lands. Sinners everywhere are being
reclaimed and songs of thanksgiving and
victory are ascending to God. But once
more in the hearts of some the spirit of
avarice and greed has been allowed to
prevail. They are engaged in the service of
self. Silver is being hoarded and hidden
that should be employed toward the salva-
tion of men. Once more God is looking
down from heaven, and the question is
asked, 'Is it a time to receive money, and
to receive garments?'
"—S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary,
on 2 Kings 5:26.
5.
What point did Jesus emphasize
in connection with the healing of
Naaman's leprosy? Luke 4:27.
NoTE.—"Today in every land there are
those who are honest in heart, and upon
these the light of heaven is shining. If they
continue faithful in following that which
they understand to be duty, they will be
given increased light, until, like Naaman of
old, they will be constrained to acknowl-
edge that 'there is no God in all the earth,'
save the living God, the Creator."—Proph-
ets
and Kings,
page 253.
War Between Syria and Israel
6.
During a period of war between
Syria and Israel, how did Elisha dis-
turb the plans of the Syrian king?
2 Kings 6:8-12.
7.
What rather foolish plan was
devised by the Syrian king? 2 Kings
6:13, 14.
8.
How was Elisha's servant (Ge-
hazi's successor) affected by the threat
of impending capture? 2 Kings 6:15.
[34
]
9.
Why did Elisha view the situa-
tion in an entirely different light?
2 Kings 6:16, 17. Compare Psalms
34:7; 91:11, 12; Heb. 1:14.
NOTE.-"Between the servant of God and
the hosts of armed foemen was an encir-
cling band of heavenly angels. They had
come down in mighty power, not to de-
stroy, not to exact homage, but to encamp
round about and minister to the Lord's
weak and helpless ones.
"When the people of God are brought
into strait places, and apparently there is
no escape for them, the Lord alone must
be their dependence."-Prophets
and Kings,
page 257.
Famine in Israel
10.
In what kind way did the Lord
turn back the invading army? 2 Kings
6:18-23.
11.
After an interval of peace,
what desperate circumstances arose in
connection with a later invasion of
the Syrians? 2 Kings 6:24, 25.
NOTE.-"Never had Israel been brought
into so great a strait as during this siege."
-Prophets and Kings,
page 258.
12.
Whom did the people blame for
their misfortunes? 2 Kings 6:30-33.
13.
How did Elisha encourage the
king and the people in the calamity?
How were Elisha's prophetic words
fulfilled? 2 Kings 7:1, 6, 7, 16.
NoTE.-"If Joram had turned to the
Lord, he might have given his people a
message of hope. If he had accepted the
words of Elisha, he might have rested in
peace and set before his people an ex-
ample of courage and trust. Man always
loses when he refuses to believe the word
of the Lord. Faith in God is the way of
wisdom and life. It brings to man joy and
peace in this world, and points the way
to an eternity of peace in the world here-
after."-S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on 2
Kings 7:16.
14.
What figure of speech was used
by the king to express Elisha's worth
to his kingdom? 2 Kings 13:14.
NOTE.-"So effectual had been his min-
istry and so widespread his influence, that
as he lay upon his deathbed, even the
youthful King Joash, an idolater with but
little respect for God, recognized in the
prophet a father in Israel, and acknowl-
edged that his presence among them was of
more value in time of trouble than the
possession of an army of horses and char-
iots."-Prophets and Kings,
page 261.
Lessons to Be Learned:
1.
God often uses humble instruments to
set in motion events of great magnitude.
Question 1.
2.
The blessings of God are completely
free and require no payment or gift. Ques-
tion 2.
3.
God is misrepresented when covetous-
ness is seen in the work of His servants.
Questions 3, 4.
4.
Greater faith is sometimes found
among the "still-lost" sons of God than
among those who have always lived in His
house. Question 5.
5.
The child of God may trust always
in unseen heavenly forces. Question 9.
6.
The Lord, by example, encourages
kindness and mercy in dealing with ene-
mies who have not filled their cup of
iniquity. Question 10.
7.
God uses prophets to encourage His
people in times of calamity. Questions 11-13.
8.
A prophet is a tower of strength to
the people of God. Question 14.
[ 35
Lesson 11, for December 14, 1968
The Prophet Jonah
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Jonah 1:1-16; 2:9;
3:3-10; 4:1-11;
Ex. 32:10,
14;
Judges 2:18.
MEMORY VERSE:
"Again, when I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; if he
turn from his sin, and do that which is lawful and right. . . . None of his
sins that he hath committed shall be mentioned unto him: he hath done that
which is lawful and right; he shall surely live." Ezek. 33:14-16.
STUDY HELPS:
"Prophets and Kings," pages 265-278; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary,"
Vol. 4.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
Sunday: Questions 1-4.
Thursday: Read from study helps.
Monday: Questions 5-8.
Friday: Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Tuesday: Questions 9-11.
Learned," review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. Jonah's Commission
1.
Jonah sent to Nineveh. Jonah
1:1, 2.
2.
Jonah's attempt to escape.
Jonah 1:3.
II. The Crisis
3.
Jonah and the supernatural storm.
Jonah 1:4-16.
4.
Jonah's attitude under trial.
Jonah 2:9 (last sentence).
III. The Warning to Nineveh
5.
Nineveh a great city.
Jonah 3:3; 4:11.
6.
Jonah's message of doom.
Jonah 3:4.
7.
Nineveh's reception of the message.
Jonah 3:5-9.
8.
The Lord's gracious acceptance
of repentance. Jonah 3:10.
9.
Other instances of the Lord's
kindness. Ex. 32:10, 14; Judges
2:18; 2 Sam. 24:16; Jer. 26:18, 19;
Gen. 18:32.
IV. Jonah's Quarrel With the Lord
10.
Jonah's reaction to the Lord's grace.
Jonah 4:1-3.
11.
The Lord's pointed question.
Jonah 4:4.
12.
The Lord's object lesson.
Jonah 4:5-8.
13.
Jonah's continued anger.
Jonah 4:9.
14.
The point of the object lesson.
Jonah 4:10, 11.
THE LESSON
Jonah's Commission
1. To what great city was Jonah
commissioned to deliver a message
for God? Jonah 1:1, 2.
NOTE.
-"The
lesson is for God's mes-
sengers today, when the cities of the nations
are as verily in need of a knowledge of the
attributes and purposes of the true God as
were the Ninevites of old. Christ's ambas-
sadors are to point men to the nobler
world, which has largely been lost sight
of....
"There is coming rapidly and surely an
almost universal guilt upon the inhabitants
of the cities, because of the steady increase
of determined wickedness. The corruption
[36
]
Lesson 12, for December 21, 1968
Daniel, the Prophet-Part I
LESSON SCRIPTURES:
Daniel 1; 2; 6:1-5.
MEMORY VERSE:
"Then these men said, 'We shall not find any ground for corn-
plaint against this Daniel unless we find it in connection with the law of his
God.' " Dan. 6:5, R.S.V.
STUDY HELPS:
"Prophets and Kings," pag es 479-502; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary,"
Vol. 4.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
Sunday: Questions 1-3.
Thursday: Read from study helps.
Monday: Questions 4-7.
Friday: Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Tuesday: Questions 8-11.
Learned," review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. Captives in Babylon
1.
A select group. Dan. 1:1, 3,
4.
2.
The king's provision for their daily
needs. Dan. 1:5-7.
II. The First Test
3.
The four captives refuse the king's
bounty. Dan. 1:8.
4.
The four captives are specially
blessed. Dan. 1:15.
5.
The four captivies win high
standing. Dan. 1:17-20.
III. A Crisis and an Opportunity
6. Nebuchadnezzar's "wise men" fail
to interpret a dream. Dan. 2:1-12.
7. A crisis faces the four Hebrews.
Dan. 2:13-16.
8. The four turn to God for help.
Dan. 2:17, 18.
9. The secret revealed in a vision.
Dan. 2:19.
IV. The Happy Ending to the Crisis
10. The dream is interpreted.
Dan. 2 :26-45.
11. The four are rewarded.
Dan. 2:46-49.
V. Daniel and the Medo-Persians
12. Daniel's worth is recognized
by Darius. Dan. 6:1-3.
13. Daniel's life is proved faultless.
Dan. 6:4.
14. Daniel to be attacked on his
loyalty to God. Dan. 6:5.
THE LESSON
Captives in Babylon
1. When Jerusalem was first cap-
tured by Nubuchadnezzar, what spe-
cial charge was given concerning the
selection of a special group of the
captives? Dan. 1:1, 3, 4.
2. What arrangements did Nebu-
chadnezzar make for their daily
needs? Dan. 1:5-7.
NOTE.-"The king did not compel the
Hebrew youth to renounce their faith in
f39
7
Lessons to Be Learned:
1.
True and loyal Christians often suffer
from the distress and trouble which comes
on their guilty nation, even though they
are living blameless lives. Question 1.
2.
When faced with situations which in-
volve clear-cut issues of right and wrong,
the Christian does not compromise. Ques-
tion 3.
3.
A course of action which has God's
approval always brings a blessing with it.
Questions 4, 5.
4.
In danger, the Christian turns to God
as naturally as the flower to the sun.
Question 8.
5.
Great men usually recognize great-
ness in other men. Question 12.
6.
The Christian's life should be blame-
less in all respects. Question 13.
7.
The Christian should be open to
criticism and attack by his enemies only
because of his religious practices and be-
liefs. Question 14.
Lesson 13, for December 28, 1968
Daniel, the Prophet-Part II
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Dan. 6:6-23; 9:1-23; 12:1-4, 9-13; Deut. 7:8, 13; 1 Kings
10:9; Hosea 2:14; Isa. 66:12.
MEMORY VERSE: "If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for
the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part He is evil spoken
of, but on your part He is glorified." 1 Peter 4:14.
STUDY HELPS: "Prophets and Kings," pages 539-548; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary,"
Vol. 4.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General survey.
Wednesday: Questions 13, 14.
Sunday: Questions 1-4.
Thursday: Read from study helps.
Monday: Questions 5-7.
Friday: Thinking of "Lessons to Be
Tuesday: Questions 8-12.
Learned," review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
I. Enemies Plan Daniel's Destruction
1.
Daniel's enemies set a trap.
Dan. 6:6, 7.
2.
Daniel continues unchanged.
Dan. 6:10, 11.
II. Enemies Fail in Their Design
3.
The enemies appear to succeed.
Dan. 6:12, 16 (first part).
4.
The king encourages Daniel.
Dan. 6:16 (last part), 19, 20.
5. Daniel delivered. Dan. 6:22, 23.
III. Daniel Has Confidence in Prophecy
6. Daniel studies Jeremiah's proph-
ecies. Dan. 9:1, 2.
7. Daniel seeks for understanding.
Dan. 9:3.
IV. Daniel Identifies Himself
With Israel
8. Daniel speaks of himself as a
sinner. Dan. 9:4-6.
[ 42 ]
9.
Daniel places God's honor first.
Dan. 9:17, 19.
V. God Loves His Children
10.
The Lord expresses love for Daniel.
Dan. 9:23.
11.
The Lord expresses love for Israel.
Deut. 7:8, 13 ; 1 Kings 10:9.
12.
The Lord expresses His love in
human terms. Hosea 2:14; Isa.
66:12 ; 1 John 3:2.
VI. Final Comforting Promises
13.
Assuring promises to Daniel.
Dan. 12:1-3, 13.
14.
Promises to God's people in last
days. Dan. 12:4, 9-12.
THE LESSON
Enemies Plan Daniel's Destruction
1. What
trap was set for Daniel?
Dan. 6:6, 7.
5. In what words did Daniel de-
scribe his experience in the lions'
den? What command did the king
issue? Dan. 6:22, 23.
2.
How did Daniel accept the chal-
lenge? Dan. 6:10, 11.
NOTE.—Notice the significant statement,
"As he did aforetime."
"Why should he cease to pray now,
when he most needed to pray? Rather
would he relinquish life itself, than his
hope of help in God. . . . Before those who
were plotting his ruin, he would not allow
it even to appear that his connection with
Heaven was severed....
"Thus the prophet boldly yet quietly
and humbly declared that no earthly power
has a right to interpose between the soul
and
God."—Prophets and Kings,
pages 541,
542.
Enemies Fail in Their Design
3.
What success attended the plan
laid by Daniel's enemies? Dan. 6:12,
16 (first part).
4.
Who encouraged Daniel in
words of strong faith? Dan. 6:16 (last
part), 19, 20.
NOTE.—"Heaven is very near those who
suffer for righteousness' sake. Christ identi-
fies His interests with the interests of His
faithful people; He suffers in the person
of His saints, and whoever touches His
chosen ones touches Him. The power that
is near to deliver from physical harm or
distress is also near to save from the
greater evil, making it possible for the
servant of God to maintain his integrity
under all circumstances, and to triumph
through divine
grace."—Prophets and
Kings,
page 545.
Daniel Has Confidence in Prophecy
6. Whose writings did Daniel
study with particular care? Dan. 9:
1, 2.
NOTE.—"Often had Daniel and his com-
panions gone over these and similar proph-
ecies outlining God's purpose for His peo-
ple. And now, as the rapid course of events
betokened the mighty hand of God at
work among the nations, Daniel gave
special thought to the promises made to
Israel. His faith in the prophetic word led
him to enter into experiences foretold by
the sacred
writers."—Prophets and Kings,
page
553.
[ 43 ]
mastery of self, Daniel, by his noble dig-
nity and unswerving integrity, while yet
a young man, won the 'favor and tender
love' of the heathen officer in whose charge
he had been placed. . . . The same char-
acteristics marked his afterlife. . . .
"Daniel was honored by God as His
ambassador, and was given many revela-
tions of the mysteries of ages to come. His
wonderful prophecies, as recorded by him
in chapters 7 to 12 of the book bearing his
name, were not fully understood even by
the prophet himself; but before his life
labors closed, he was given the blessed as-
surance that 'at the end of days'—in the
closing period of this world's history—he
would again be permitted to stand in his
lot and
place."—Prophets and Kings,
pages
546, 547.
14. What is promised to God's peo-
ple in the last days regarding the
book of Daniel? Dan. 12:4, 9-12.
NOTE.—"As we near the close of this
world's history, the prophecies recorded by
Daniel demand our special attention, as
they relate to the very time in which we
are living. With them should be linked the
teachings of the last book of the New
Testament Scriptures. Satan has led many
to believe that the prophetic portions of
the writings of Daniel and of John the
revelator cannot be understood. But the
promise is plain that special blessing will
accompany the study of these prophecies.
`The wise shall understand' . . was spoken
of the visions of Daniel that were to be
unsealed in the latter days. . . .
"A careful study of the working out of
God's purpose in the history of nations
and in the revelation of things to come,
will help us to estimate at their true value
things seen and things unseen, and to learn
what is the true aim of life. Thus, viewing
the things of time in the light of eternity,
we may, like Daniel and his fellows, live
for that which is true and noble and en-
during. And learning
in
this life the prin-
ciples of the kingdom of our Lord and
Saviour, that blessed kingdom which is to
endure forever and ever, we may be pre-
pared at His coming to enter with Him into
its possession."—Prophets
and Kings,
pages
547, 548.
Lessons to Be Learned:
1.
The Christian's habits of right living
have much to do with victories in unex-
pected crises. Question 2.
2.
God's children, by their lives of trust
and devotion, can arouse faith in others.
Question 4.
3.
When His servants seem to be hope-
lessly trapped by the forces of evil, God
can easily open up a way of victory.
Question 5.
4.
All great leaders in God's work are
quick to identify themselves with His
sinning people. Question 8.
5.
The glory and h6nor of God are
paramount in the life of a true child of
God. Question 9.
6.
Every servant of God may know
himself to be deeply loved by the Father.
Question 10.
7.
Although a life of unswerving devo-
tion to God sometimes brings the Christian
into hard and trying circumstances, the
rewards in this life and in the life to come
far outweigh the trials. Question 13.
8.
A careful study of the book of Daniel
by God's people in the last days will help
them to face the coming conflicts coura-
geously. Question 14.
"The Lord desires that those
who are engaged in the Sab-
bath School work should be
missionaries, able to go forth
to the towns and villages
that surround the church,
and give the light of life to
those who sit in darkness."
—Testimonies on Sabbath
School Work,
page 74.
46
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THE DESIRE OF AGES
R
DISCOV
HRY
Our Five Most Significant Books
Change the Hearts of the People
THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING
December 21, 1968
The Middle East Division
The Middle East Division reaches from "the shores of Tripoli" on the
west to the frontier of Afghanistan on the east, and from Istanbul on the
Bosporus to the Sudan border with Uganda. Parts of three continents are
included in this expansive territory that is peopled by over 130,000,000
inhabitants, more than 95 percent of whom are followers of the religion
of Islam.
Our work among the peoples of the Middle East started near the turn
of the century. Growth has been slow during intervening years, and even
today the peoples of these lands remain largely untouched with the gospel.
For each Seventh-day Adventist there remains a non-Adventist population
of 51,755. This is by far the greatest challenge that faces the church today.
Three special projects will be the recipients of our Thirteenth Sabbath
Offering overflow this quarter: one, an all-purpose gymnasium-auditorium
for the Middle East College; two, an all-purpose auditorium adjacent to
the Benghazi Hospital in Libya, where health education classes can be
conducted and recreational pursuits for the hospital personnel can be carried
on; three, an orphanage in the city of Amman, Jordan. Great numbers of
children in this area have been left orphans because of war and political
upheavals. As part of our Heaven-ordained task we are to give heed to the
needs of these fatherless children. Our believers in the Middle East are look-
ing to their brothers and sisters around the world for help on this coming
Thirteenth Sabbath.
Lessons for the First Quarter of 1969
Sabbath School members who have failed to receive a senior
Lesson Quarterly
for the first quarter of 1969 will be helped by the following outline
in
studying
the first lesson. The title of the series is "The Crises of the Christ." The title of
the first lesson is "Provision for the Crisis of Sin." The Memory Verse is Acts 2:23.
The texts to be studied are:
Ques. 1. Isa. 46:10.
Ques. 2. Ps. 139:16.
Ques. 3. Rev. 13:8 (last part).
Ques. 4. John 10:17, 18.
Ques. 5. Acts 2:23.
Ques. 6. John 1:1-3.
Ques. 7. Isa. 9:6 (second part).
Ques. 8. Isa. 9:6 (first part).
Ques. 9. Isa. 59:2.
Ques. 10. Rom. 6:16.
Ques. 11. John 3:16.
Ques. 12. Gen. 3:15.
Ques. 13. Rom. 16:20.
f47
]
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603,000
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30,083,000
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23,428,000
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134,550,000
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Division Totals
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